While many students travel abroad for academic research or to learn a new language, most go purely to experience a new culture and to have a good time -- plus, there's evidence that the trip could lead to a better GPA. Click through to discover nine of the most popular study abroad destinations from recent years. All statistics come from the Institute of International Education's 2009 report -- see their site for more information.

Where would you go? Or where have you been? Share your experience in the comments section!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/07/27/the-hottest-study-abroad_n_661281.html