In Costa Rica, crime has also increased in the past few years, but the popular tourist destination remains the safest country in Central America.

BBC: Central America��s shift in safety

The landmark move marks the first time in five decades that Cubans will be able to travel outside their country without a tourist visa or an invitation from a resident in their destination country.

BBC: Cuba lifts travel restrictions

The restoration of peace was expected to aid the country's promotion as a tourist destination in the long term.

BBC: Sierra Leone profile

Spain is Britain's top tourist destination, with about 12 million people heading for the country each year.

CNN: Mystery Spain blast kills woman

Luxor lies on the banks of the River Nile in the south of the country, and has long been a popular tourist destination.

BBC: Egypt: Balloon crashes near Luxor killing 19 tourists