Top countries offering perks to their visitors

World map of countries with tourist perks

Key Highlights

  1. Several countries worldwide offer unique perks and benefits to attract tourists.
  2. These perks can range from tax-free shopping and free Wi-Fi to visa-free entry and free rail passes.
  3. Countries like the United Kingdom, Thailand, and Japan offer tax refunds and discounted travel passes to enhance the visitor experience.
  4. Other countries, such as Iceland and Italy, provide access to free experiences and cultural events.
  5. These incentives aim to boost tourism, stimulate the economy, and promote cultural exchange.

Introduction

In a world facing climate change and its effects on travel, countries like the United States are looking for new ways to draw visitors. The United Nations Statistics Division and the CIA World Factbook show that tourism helps a lot with the economic growth of many nations, including the United States. To keep attracting travelers and offer great experiences, countries are introducing tempting perks and benefits. Don’t let valuable travel opportunities slip away! This article will provide you with the crucial information you need to plan your trips effectively.

Countries Offering Unique Top Perks for Tourists

Collage of countries offering tourist perks

From the busy cities in Asia to the calm scenes in Europe, countries are competing to attract tourists. They know that providing something special can greatly improve the visitor’s experience. These extras are not just about saving money; they highlight all the great things a place has to offer.

This can include making travel easier with visa-free entry. It may also allow tourists to save money with tax-free shopping. Or it could provide unique chances, like free train passes or entry to cultural events. These options meet different likes and needs of visitors.

United Kingdom: Historic Sites Passes & Discounted travel

The United Kingdom and its British Overseas Territories are renowned for their historic sites and rich cultural heritage. To enhance the visitor experience, the country offers historic sites passes that grant access to iconic landmarks such as Buckingham Palace and Stonehenge. Additionally, tourists can enjoy discounted travel like the visitor Oyster card through various transportation modes like bus, Tube, tram, DLR, London Overground, Elizabeth line, River Bus and most National Rail services in London, making it easier to explore all that the UK has to offer. Additionally, you can use your card and save money at restaurants, shops, galleries and entertainment venues. These perks not only make traveling more convenient but also showcase the diverse attractions and history of the country, ensuring a memorable trip for every visitor.

Thailand: Vat retuns, free sim & tourism campaigns

◾ The Kingdom of Thailand is famous for its beautiful beaches, amazing temples, and lively culture, similar to the Kingdom of the Netherlands. One great benefit for tourists is the chance to get VAT refunds. Visitors can get back the 7% Value Added Tax (VAT) on certain items bought at approved stores around the country.

To get a VAT refund, tourists need to follow some rules. They must spend a minimum amount at certified shops. They also need to show their passport and fill out VAT refund forms at specific airports before leaving.

This refund program makes shopping in Thailand even more enjoyable. Travelers can feel good knowing they can get some of their money back. It encourages people to spend and helps support the retail and tourism industries in Thailand.

◾ Free Sim Cards: Visitors to Thailand have the opportunity to obtain a complimentary SIM card as part of the “Welcome Back to Thailand” initiative. This SIM card includes a free trial of internet data, which can be recharged at a later time. More information about how to get yours you can find by clicking here. Another cheap option in case you run out of GB is to opt in for an e-sim. Is easy to set-up and you don’t have to keep replace the sim cards or even worse, loose them. The best offer we could find is the one from esim.

◾ Tourism Campaigns: Exclusive discounts available for international visitors on tours, accommodations, and attractions.

You can find more info by visiting the “WOW! Thailand Passport Privileges” campaign.

Japan: Discounted rail & tax exemptions

Japan attracts visitors with its mix of old traditions and new wonders. One great benefit for tourists is the chance to get a discounted rail pass. The Japan Rail Pass, for example, allows unlimited travel on most Japan Railways (JR) lines, including bullet trains, for a set time. This pass gives travelers great convenience and saves money. It is perfect for those who want to visit many cities and regions in Japan. With this pass, travelers can enjoy Japan’s efficient and famous rail system without buying separate tickets for every trip. The Japan Rail Pass makes it easy and cheap for tourists to travel, helping them to see more than just the big cities and find the hidden treasures of this amazing country.

What is the price of the Japan Rail Pass?

Type

Ordinary

Green Car

7 Day Adult Pass

£184.00

£245.00

14 Day Adult Pass

£292.00

£397.00

21 Day Adult Pass

£374.00

£516.00

Reduced Rates (50% off) apply to children aged 6-11

◾ Tourists in Japan can obtain tax exemptions by showing their passport during purchases, provided they meet the minimum spending threshold of 5,000 yen (£26) for general merchandise and between 5,000 (£26) and 500,000 (£2600) yen for consumables, as indicated on LiveJapan. Certain retailers may necessitate a visit to a specific tax exemption counter to process the refund. Additionally, registering with Visit Japan Web can facilitate a more efficient tax-free experience.

◾ Cultural Programs: Cultural experiences, such as tea ceremonies or kimono rentals, are frequently offered at no cost or with financial assistance. More about what to do if you visit Tokyo can be found here or if you want to pay for different experiences you can also visit GetYourGuide or Viator apps where you can find all kind of experiences available to anyone.

Dubai: Dubai pass – offers discounts or free access to major attractions

◾ Dubai is a stunning city in the United Arab Emirates. It is famous for its luxury attractions and amazing experiences. To improve the experience for visitors, Dubai has the Dubai Pass. This is a great program that offers discounts or free access to some of the most popular attractions in the city. The Dubai Pass is a prepaid card. It helps tourists save money and makes it easy to visit many places. The pass includes a variety of attractions, like the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, and IMG Worlds of Adventure. With the Dubai Pass, tourists can get discounted or free entry to these exciting spots. This encourages them to discover more of what the city offers. It helps them get more value from their entertainment budget and create unforgettable memories.

◾ Tax-Free Shopping: All products and services in the UAE are subject to a Value Added Tax (VAT) of 5%. However, it is important to note that there is an option for tax-free purchases. Shoppers can now benefit from tax-free shopping, allowing them to reclaim the VAT paid on specific items. To qualify for this refund, they simply need to validate their purchases at the time of departure. Any international tourist aged 18 years or older is now entitled to a VAT refund for eligible purchases made within the UAE. More info about how to shop tax free you can find by visiting planetpayment.

◾ Kids Go Free: The Kids Go Free initiative in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) enables children to enjoy complimentary accommodations at hotels in Abu Dhabi and to travel at no cost with Emirates Holidays. Additionally, there are various parks and natural attractions in Dubai that can be visited free of charge.

Singapore: Exclusive Discounts to its visitors

◾ Singapore is a vibrant city in Southeast Asia. It is famous for being very clean and has beautiful places like Gardens by the Bay. The city also offers great shopping and dining options, much like what you might find in San Marino. To make visiting even more fun, Singapore has special discounts and promotions for tourists. You can find these discounts on the official tourism website, in apps on your phone, and through airlines and hotels. Tourists can save money while shopping at luxury stores or enjoying meals at top restaurants.

◾ Another great option for visitors is the Singapore Tourist Pass. This pass lets travelers use the public transport system without limits. It is easy to use and helps you explore both popular spots and secret treasures in Singapore at a good price.

South Korea – Free Wi-Fi, Tax-free shopping and discounted travel

◾ South Korea is a country known for its technology. It offers one great benefit for modern travelers: easy access to free Wi-Fi. In today’s world, staying connected is very important, and South Korea makes it easy for everyone. Tourists can find free Wi-Fi hotspots in many places across the country. This includes airports, train stations, shopping malls, and cafes. With this Wi-Fi, travelers can keep in touch with family and friends, share what they are doing on social media, and find their way around easily. By providing free Wi-Fi, South Korea not only improves the experience for tourists but also helps everyone stay connected without the worry of high roaming fees.

◾ The Korea Tour Card is a versatile travel card specifically created for international visitors to South Korea. It functions as a transportation card applicable to various forms of transit, including subways, buses, and taxis. Furthermore, it offers discounts and exclusive deals at a wide range of tourist sites, performances, accommodations, and retail establishments throughout the nation.

◾ South Korea offers tax-free shopping for tourists, allowing them to reclaim a portion of the Value Added Tax (VAT) on eligible purchases. To qualify, tourists from places like Hong Kong must present their passport and meet the minimum purchase amount. Tax refunds can be processed at designated counters at airports and seaports.

Key Points:

Eligibility: Foreign tourists visiting South Korea for less than 6 months.

Eligible Purchases: Many goods, excluding certain items like consumables and some cultural goods.

Refund Amount: Up to 10% of the purchase price.

Process: Obtain a tax refund slip from the retailer, present it at customs upon departure, and receive your refund in cash or through a credit card.

Turkey: E-Visa, Discounted Museum Pass & more

◾ Turkey is a country located between Europe and Asia. It has a rich history, beautiful places, and a lively culture that attracts visitors from various regions, including the Republic of Cyprus. To make it easier to travel there, Turkey provides an e-Visa system for many country citizens. This allows speedy and simple entry. No more long visa applications and waiting times. With Turkey’s e-Visa, eligible travelers can apply online and get their visas quickly, usually within minutes. The system is easy to use, safe, and removes the need for paperwork or visits to embassies. This helpful e-Visa system simplifies the travel process. It saves time for tourists and makes Turkey a more attractive place for people looking for adventure and a chance to experience its culture.

◾ The Museum Pass Türkiye is a convenient and cost-effective way to explore Turkey’s rich cultural heritage. It grants you access to over 300 museums and archaeological sites across the country, including renowned attractions like the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. With a Museum Pass, you can delve into ancient civilizations, admire stunning architecture, and discover fascinating artifacts at a fraction of the usual cost.

◾ Turkey presents a distinctive combination of opulent experiences at remarkably reasonable rates. Revel in sumptuous lodgings amidst breathtaking landscapes, savor exquisite cuisine accompanied by spectacular vistas, and discover historical marvels with tailored service. With offerings ranging from premier spa facilities to exclusive yacht rentals, Turkey appeals to discerning travelers in pursuit of unparalleled luxury that remains budget-friendly.

Iceland: Free experiences

◾ Iceland has glaciers, volcanoes, and beautiful views. It gives tourists the special chance to enjoy free experiences. You can visit amazing places like waterfalls, geysers, and hot springs for no entrance fees. Iceland wants to keep its natural sites safe and open for everyone. People can hike on pretty trails, see geysers burst into the air, and watch the magical Northern Lights—all without paying anything. These free experiences help visitors enjoy Iceland’s beauty and make great memories. It shows that the country cares about tourism that is kind to the earth and wants to share its wonders with everyone. Additionally, you can also find the top 10 free things to do in Iceland on TripAdvisor.

◾ Visitors from foreign countries, including those from Ireland, are eligible to request a proportional VAT refund while shopping in Iceland. This refund applies solely to purchases meant for export and must total at least ISK 6,000 (inclusive of VAT) made at one retail location.

◾ Icelandair and PLAY Airlines provide complimentary stopovers in Iceland for their transatlantic flights. This allows travelers to discover Iceland for a duration of up to 7 days with Icelandair or 10 days with PLAY, all at no additional charge to the airfare. This presents an excellent chance to immerse oneself in Iceland’s breathtaking scenery, lively culture, and distinctive allure without incurring substantial extra costs during your trip.

Italy: Cultural Sunday

◾ Italy is known for its art, history, and culture. It has a great offer for tourists: free entry to state museums and archaeological sites on the first Sunday of each month. This is called “Domenica al Museo” or “Cultural Sunday.” The goal is to make Italian culture easier for everyone to enjoy. On Cultural Sunday, visitors can visit famous places like the Colosseum in Rome, the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, and the Pompeii archaeological site for free. It is a great chance to dive into Italian art and history without spending a lot of money. This program helps share Italian culture and draws in more visitors, especially those on a budget. It makes their travel experience even better.

◾ The Visitalia travel card serves as a comprehensive City Pass, providing discounts on a diverse array of attractions and services, encompassing historical and cultural landmarks, as well as accommodations, retail outlets, dining establishments, and numerous other affiliated partners. It is accompanied by a complete kit that features several useful tools, including a travel map, a discount guide, and an interactive geolocalized map of the city.

Maldives: Visa-Free Entry

◾ The Maldives offers visa-free entry for most nationalities, allowing tourists to stay for up to 30 days.

However, there may be some exceptions.

Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.

Proof of Funds: You may be required to show proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay.

Return/Onward Ticket: You’ll generally need to present a confirmed return or onward ticket.

It’s always best to check the latest travel advisories and entry requirements from official sources like the Maldives Immigration website or your country’s embassy/consulate in the Maldives before your trip.

Switzerland: Seasonal offers and promotions for international tourists

◾ In many Swiss locations, visitors receive a guest card when they reserve accommodations for one night or longer, or they have the option to purchase one at a reduced rate. Nearly all of these cards permit complimentary use of public transportation and provide discounts on a variety of attractions and activities.

◾ Swiss Travel Pass: This Pass serves as a comprehensive ticket that allows for unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats across Switzerland for a predetermined number of days. Additionally, it offers complimentary access to more than 500 museums and provides discounts on mountain excursions, rendering it a practical and economical option for discovering the nation.

Why Do Countries Offer These Benefits?

According to the CIA World Factbook, tourism is a big part of many countries’ income. It helps boost the economy, create jobs, and bring in money from abroad. Member states of the European Union, for example, work hard to promote tourism to help their economies.

These countries offer special deals and advantages to guests. This helps to attract more visitors and encourages them to stay longer and spend more money. In return, this helps their economies grow. Besides the money, these programs also work to improve the country’s image, support cultural exchange, and create a friendly and unforgettable experience for travelers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these countries truly want to improve the travel experience for visitors. They offer special perks and benefits. For example, you can shop tax-free in the UAE and get free rail passes in Japan. Each place works hard to give value and ease to tourists. These gifts make travel more fun and show how welcoming and kind these nations are. Next time you plan your trip, think about visiting these countries. You can enjoy great perks that will make your journey more memorable. Start planning your next adventure today!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What are the most common perks offered by countries to tourists?
  2. Common perks include tax-free shopping, visa-free entry, discounted travel passes, free Wi-Fi, access to free cultural events, and complimentary experiences like stopover programs.
  3. How can I find information about specific perks offered by a particular country?
  4. The best resources are the official tourism websites of the countries you’re interested in. You can also check travel blogs, guidebooks, and embassy/consulate websites for the most up-to-date information.
  5. Do all countries offer the same perks to tourists?
  6. No, the perks offered vary significantly from country to country depending on their tourism focus and target market.
  7. How can I take advantage of these perks during my travels?
  8. Research the available perks before your trip. Make sure to meet the eligibility requirements (e.g., minimum spending for tax refunds, passport validity for visa-free entry).
  9. Carry necessary documents like your passport and any required vouchers or passes.
  10. Inquire with local tourism offices or hotel staff for further assistance.
  11. Do these perks benefit the host country as well?
  12. Yes, these perks significantly benefit host countries by attracting more tourists, boosting their economies, creating jobs, and promoting cultural exchange.
  13. Are there any hidden costs associated with these perks?
  14. While many perks are free or offer significant savings, some may have hidden costs. For example, while a rail pass might seem cost-effective, additional costs may apply for certain routes or seat reservations.
  15. How can I find information about the visa requirements for a specific country?
  16. Check the official website of the country’s embassy or consulate in your home country.
  17. Can I combine multiple perks offered by a single country?
  18. In some cases, you might be able to combine multiple perks. For example, you could use a discounted travel pass and also take advantage of tax-free shopping.