"The Mediterranean is home to some of the most famous islands in the world. Each have their claim to fame. Corsica was Napoleon's birthplace. Rhodes had its Colossus. Malta was a Crusader stronghold. Crete had a Bronze Age civilization that predated the Greeks. For thousands of years, the seas between Europe and Africa have roiled with activity. Visitors usually know one or two basic things about them, and when they arrive, they learn so much more."
"This Italian island isn't small - the population is about 1.6 million - yet few U.S. travelers could place it on a map, much less know anything about it. There's no go-to historic event, cultural hallmark, or standard souvenir that Americans think of, and most would be excited to recall that it's an island. Sardinia doesn't make U.S. headlines. While millions of Americans claim heritage from Sicily, another large Mediterranean island governed by Italy, Sardinians never left such a memorable legacy at Ellis Island."
"In 2024, 4.5 million travelers visited Sardinia, a massive 15% increase over the previous year. More people are discovering this Mediterranean island is a must-visit for thrilling outdoor adventures, and the Sardinian tourism industry raked in $1.7 billion. While the vast majority of these guests are European, the reputation has spread to the United States: Delta Airlines will start servicing direct flights from New York City to Sardinia in 2026."
The Mediterranean hosts many historically significant islands, each with distinct legacies such as Napoleon's Corsica and Crete's Bronze Age civilization. Mallorca and Cyprus evoke beaches, turquoise waters, cliffs, and grilled seafood. Sardinia, with about 1.6 million residents, has remained relatively unfamiliar to many Americans and lacks a single iconic cultural emblem in U.S. perception. Sardinian migrants left less visible traces at Ellis Island compared with Sicilian immigrants. In 2024, Sardinia received 4.5 million visitors—a 15% increase—and generated $1.7 billion in tourism revenue. Most visitors are European, but U.S. interest is rising, with Delta starting direct New York flights in 2026.
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