Cat lovers, mark your calendars: August 8th is International Cat Day. Created in 2002 by the International Fund for Animal Welfare, the event invites cat lovers to celebrate felines around the world.

But in case you miss out on doing anything on the day, at these destinations cats are celebrated all year-round.

Aoshima, Japan

The feline residents of this island outnumber the humans six to one

Off the coast of Japan, the tiny island of Aoshima is only 1.6km long and is largely populated by cats. The island’s feline residents outnumber humans six to one (although it should be mentioned that there are only about 15 full-time residents on the island). A group of cats were originally brought to the island to deal with the rodents that plagued the fishing community and since then have taken over the island with their population growing steadily each year.

APA Hotel Matsuyamajo-Nishi is just 15 minutes from the train station

A trip to Aoshima is best done as a day trip from the mainland city of Matsuyama. APA Hotel Matsuyamajo-Nishi is just a 15-minute walk from the JR Matsuyama Train Station where you can start your journey to the island.

Santorini, Greece

Cats add a splash of colour to Santorini's white and blue architecture

The largest of a small group of islands that make up the municipality of Santorini, the eponymous island is famous for its blue and white architecture. But start exploring and you’ll quickly see that the island also has an impressive feline population. Cats on the island are cared for by residents and visitors alike and there are several organizations dedicated to helping to support their health and well-being. Plus, if you fall in love with a little Santorini cat while on your holiday, there are organizations that facilitate out-of-country adoptions.

Enjoy ocean views from the pool

In the village of Imerovihli on the island of Santorini is the Vasilicos. Built in the traditional Santorini style, this property has a pool with ocean views.

Istanbul, Turkey

Cats are a fixture of Istanbul's outdoor markets

During the Ottoman empire, the Sultans of Istanbul welcomed cats to the city knowing that they would keep it free of vermin. Over the years, the street cats became a welcome fixture, treasured as both workers and companions to residents. Today, the care of these cats is up to the city’s residents, who leave food and water out for them as they roam the neighbourhoods.

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