Flows into Japan-focused funds during the week ending Feb. 6 hit a 34 week high and retail commitments climbed to levels last seen in the second quarter of 2006, making it the most popular destination in terms of demand.

FORBES: Favorite Investment Ideas Heading Into February

Many more of those regions' consumers now own cars, he notes, a phenomenon that has stimulated demand for more destination shopping centers.

FORBES: They're springing up in Asia, but will they all last?

Despite having no running water or electricity, the huts at the popular holiday destination of Abersoch are in great demand.

BBC: Abersoch beach hut