NYC agency says Puglia, Sicily among emerging destinations

Puglia and Sicily in southern Italy, as well as Croatia, Israel, Japan, Rwanda and Tanzania, are all emerging destinations with "substantial surges in demand," according to Ovation Travel Group.

The New York-based travel agency said it polled advisors to identify emerging destinations.

"We recently asked Ovation Travel Group's expert luxury leisure travel advisors to name the top emerging destinations internationally that they previously booked infrequently at best, but have now noticed significant growths in popularity," CEO Paul Metselaar said in a statement.

In Italy, which Ovation recently said is its most popular international destination overall, Puglia and Sicily were named emerging destinations. Ovation's Gina Gabbard, senior vice president of leisure and independent advisors, said the two regions made the list because experienced travelers are looking for new places to visit within Italy.

Croatia's popularity was attributed to the country being featured on HBO's hit television series "Game of Thrones," as well as its geological beauty and well-preserved medieval cities.

Japan's popularity was attributed at least in part to anticipation of the Olympics to be held next summer in Tokyo.

Rwanda and Tanzania likely made the list because of their wildlife. Gabbard said Africa in general has been popular, with other destinations like Morocco, Egypt and South Africa drawing Ovation clients, but Rwanda and Tanzania have "seen the most dramatic growth recently."