Virgil van Dijk has been named as the new ambassador for a leading travel brand as the city experiences a tourism boom

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has taken on a new role as the city’s travel ambassador.

Travel brand Expedia has named Liverpool as one of their top 10 trending global destinations in their Unpack 2024 guide. Searches for trips to Liverpool have doubled year-on-year, with tourists coming from countries like the US, Canada, Australia, Norway and Ireland.

To mark Liverpool’s rising popularity, Expedia has enlisted Red’s skipper Van Dijk as their new ambassador. The Dutch defender has created the ultimate travel guide, showcasing his favorite spots around the city.

These include the famous Cavern Club, where The Beatles started their career, the renowned Royal Albert Dock and, naturally, Anfield, Van Dijk’s home for the past six years.

“Travel is a real passion of mine,” said Van Dijk. “We visit so many cities through football, but don’t get to fully immerse ourselves in them, so any time off I get, I am always looking to head out on an adventure with my friends and family. That’s why I am excited to be partnering with Expedia, as we both believe that we are all made to travel.”, reports the Mirror.

Van Dijk has now revealed his top 10 things to do in the city – including a visit to the new luxury hotel, independent restaurants, and an immersive culture and gaming hub.

The Dutchman’s guide, which he has curated with the help of some of his teammates, also features the city’s historical sites and, of course, a football match

Van Dijk hopes the guide will lead to an even greater increase in tourism to Liverpool, while he’s also got his eye on a few trips of his own too.

“The football calendar is incredibly busy of course but one day in the future I’d love to visit Japan, a country I am fascinated by. I’m a big fan of city breaks too. I love exploring new cities and cultures with my family,” he said.

“I love many cities including Amsterdam and Paris, but Liverpool of course for me holds such a special place in my heart which is why I’ve been excited to curate my Liverpool travel guide with Expedia. I hope it helps future visitors to this great city! “.