Pope Francis’s popularity has grown since he was elected in 2013. As he is set to launch his first trip to the US, a piece of research has shown that his approval rating is growing, resulting in an increase in the number of people who are prepared to travel to see him.

Later this month, Pope Francis will arrive in the US as part of a six-day visit to the country. During his stay, he will take in Washington, D.C., New York and Philadelphia. His trip will include visits to the White House and the United Nations General Assembly. It is anticipated that Roman Catholics and non-Catholics alike will travel from across the country and further afield to stay in apartments and hotels close to where the Pope will visit.

Those who want to get close to Pope Francis during his stay in the US will have plenty of opportunities. In Washington, D.C., he will take part in a papal parade and visit St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. His stay in New York will include a service at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum and a papal motorcade will pass through Central Park. His tour will finish with a two-day visit to Philadelphia, where he will make a visit to Independence Mall and hold a papal mass at the World Meeting of Families.

The growth in tourism is not just confined to the Pope’s visit to the US. There has also been an increased interest in trips to Rome and Argentina, the Pope’s home country.