London crowned world's favourite city as New York fails to crack top 5

London has been crowned the world’s favourite city - ahead of glitzy destinations like New York, Bangkok and Dubai.
The capital played host to 18.82 million visitors last year and experts predict a 6% rise in the number of sightseers this year as the UK stages the rugby union World Cup in September.
According to the Mastercard Global Cities Index, the Big Apple only managed sixth position, with 12.27 million tourists traipsing around its streets, while Hong Kong trailed in at number 10 with 8.66 million visitors.
Bangkok was the second most popular city break, notching up 18.24 million tourists, while Paris was third with just over 16 million.
The study of 132 of the most visited cities in the world found this year holidaymakers will blow £236 billion and make 382.9 million visits to explore the world’s capitals and landmark locations.



This is the fifth time in seven years that London has come out tops and Mayor Boris Johnson said: “I’m delighted that London has proudly held on to this coveted title, as we celebrate another triumphant and record-breaking year for tourism in the city.
“With its unrivalled mix of history, culture, culinary gems and cutting-edge creativity, I’m confident that these accolades will keep coming as the capital continues to surprise and excite visitors from all over the world.”
Istanbul saw the biggest leap in visitor numbers - up 11.4% since last year to 12.56 million to edge New York out of fifth place.
And the report said countries need bigger airports to keep up with tourists’ demands for big city trips adding they are “vital for stimulating such growth that can boost local economies, jobs and business opportunities”.