New Zealand one of best 2010 destinations – Lonely Planet

The latest edition of Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel guide includes New Zealand as one of the best countries to visit in 2010.

The annual publication, compiled by one of the most influenced and knowledgeable travel publishers in the world, highlights some of the best travel destinations globally.

“Recommending New Zealand’s too obvious, right? You’re looking for something a bit edgier, under the radar or further off the beaten track. But there’s wisdom in the old saying, ‘If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’, and last time we checked the land of Maori and hobbits certainly didn’t need repairing,” said Lonely Planet in its recommendation.

The country’s “spectacular landscapes” and a “hearty pinch of lens-friendly wildlife, proud Maori culture, and fine food and drink” granted New Zealand a place at the top of the ranking.

The guide mentions paragliding over Queenstown, kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park, exploring Tongariro National Park and flying over Fiordland as “life-changing experiences” travellers can have in New Zealand.

“Being singled out as one of the Top 10 Countries for 2010 by Lonely Planet is an astonishing result for New Zealand, given the competition out there from established and emerging tourism destinations," commented George Hickton, chief executive of Tourism New Zealand.

Along with New Zealand, Lonely Planet’s top best destinations for 2010 includes El Salvador, Germany, Greece, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Portugal, Suriname and the USA.