Travel Experts Predict Boom In Tourism To Libya (VIDEO)

A global tourism conference in London this week revealed marketing plans and numerous predictions for the future of travel next year and beyond in a diverse group of nations.

Most notable, though, was the buzz about Libya and other Arab Spring countries, which are now marketing themselves as tourist-friendly democracies with rich ancient and modern histories. At the same conference, the Tunisian tourism minister invited the Duke and Dutchess of Cambridge, Will and Kate, to come visit, citing his nation's diverse culture.

One expert tells Reuters that Libya "has great potential" because of its location near Europe and its lengthy coastline. "There will be a period of reconstruction," she continued. "But if you're talking maybe the next 10 to 20 years, I wouldn't be surprised if we see the likes of Easyjet or Ryanair moving in."

Attractions include Saharan salt lakes, Greek and Roman ruins and a smattering of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

As one conference-goer and Libya booster says of the country, "We've had tourism for many years. People don't realize that. But people have been coming for a long, long time."