LONDON, October 19, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

• National Holidays attract holidaymakers from across the world

• American Thanksgiving remains a popular time for travel

• Thomas Cook expects to holidays to Cuba to prove popular next year

From Thanksgiving in the USA to Independence Day in Mexico, the calendar of celebrations in the New World could provide a new diary for international tourism, leading travel operator Thomas Cook has suggested.

With top destinations for 2013 including Cuba, Mexico and Florida, Thomas Cook takes a look at the events which are likely to draw crowds to foreign shores over the next twelve months.

Cuba

Enjoy the music of the Buena Vista Social Club, revel in the dreams of the revolution and enjoy a unique experience with a trip which coincides with Cuba's National Day of Independence in May. Cuba is a country in the midst of change but this doesn't mean that anyone looking for an extraordinary time should miss out on the fantastic options already available for Cuba holidays in 2013.

This country certainly knows how to have a 'fiesta', so travellers should pack their party shoes and enjoy an exhilarating experience amidst stunning examples of colonial Spanish architecture. From Havana to Ciego de Avila, the island of Cuba promises to delight all travellers.

Mexico

One of the best ways to visit this constantly evolving country is to take one of the many packaged Mexico holidays and explore the region to your heart's content. The Mexican National Day is on September 16^th and celebrates independence from Spain back in 1810.

These days, travellers will find a vibrant country with superb art, amazing architecture and charming local hospitality. Holidaymakers can choose from an abundance of fantastic excursions that take in the coastal sights of the Mexican Riviera through to the historical Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza.

Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic celebrates its freedom from Haitian rule in May and this is an ideal month to visit the balmy country. There may well be the odd shower but general day temperatures are a pleasant 79°F (approximately 26°C).

From Los Ranchitos near the island's capital of San Domingo to the stunning Los Haitises national park in the North, anyone who selects a Dominican Republic holiday will be able to relax and explore this beautiful Caribbean island to their heart's content.

Florida

The most famous American anniversary of them all is Thanksgiving, which celebrates the safe arrival of pilgrims to the United States and expresses their thanks to the Native Americans for helping them survive. In 2012, celebrations are scheduled for 22^nd November and this is a perfect excuse to enjoy one of many cheap holidays in Florida.

The weather in the area is a civilised 70°C (approximately 21°C) and visitors will be able to join in the Thanksgiving celebrations at many of the major resorts, including Orlando.

Thomas Cook Children's Charity  is committed to making dreams come true for sick and disadvantaged children in the UK & Overseas - to find out more about the work we do visit our website.

SOURCE Thomas Cook