Lonely Planet’s top 10 countries for 2011

Oct 31, 2010 8:29:37 PM

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Where in the world should you go next year? Our in-house travel experts, including Lonely Planet cofounder Tony Wheeler, have chosen their top 10 countries for next year based on scores for topicality, excitement, value for money and…that special X-factor. Here they are, in order of rank, from Lonely Planet’s latest book: Best in Travel 2011.

1. Albania

Not so long ago, when the Balkans were considered an ‘only for the brave’ travel destination, only the bravest of the brave trickled into Albania. Since backpackers started coming to elusive Albania in the 1990s, tales have been told in ‘keep it to yourself’ whispers of azure beaches, confrontingly good cuisine, heritage sites, nightlife, affordable adventures and the possibility of old-style unplanned journeys complete with open-armed locals for whom travellers are still a novelty. Sick to death of being dismissed with blinged-up crime-boss clichés, Albania has announced ‘A New Mediterranean Love’ via its tourist board. The jig is almost up – Albania won’t be off the beaten track for much longer.

2. Brazil

Famous for samba, football and cinematic scenery, Brazil has always been known for celebration (Carnaval being the most obvious manifestation of this national joie de vivre). Yet, Brazil rings in 2011 with even more cause for jubilation. Winning the bids to host both the 2014 FIFA World Cup and the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil is undertaking a flurry of new projects, with billions of dollars earmarked for infrastructure (there’s even discussion of building a high-speed rail line between Rio and São Paulo). Despite the strong Brazilian real, travellers should benefit from the addition of thousands of new hotel rooms, while increased competition from low-cost airline carriers (including Azul, established by the Brazilian-born founder of JetBlue) should make travel across this vast country more affordable.

3. Cape Verde

Cape Verdeans might have known about the wider world forever, but it seems that the wider world is only just opening its eyes to Cape Verde. On the surface this is hardly a surprise; the country appears to be nothing but a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it dot of dust floating off the coast of Africa, but the islands have recently started catching sideways glances from European winter-sun tourists. This growing international interest is bringing enormous changes to an archipelago that looks and feels as if it were born from a Caribbean mother and an African father. But what is it that these tourists come for? When someone first mentioned trying to attract foreign visitors to their ‘dot of dust’ most Cape Verdeans must have laughingly thought ‘What can we offer a tourist here?’. The answer turned out to be quite a lot. Soaring mountains terraced in greens, a volcano with its head in the clouds, world-class watersports and sizzling, saucy festivals – but it was the sun that clinched the deal. With almost more days of sunshine than there are days in the year and with soft sandy beaches to boot, someone only had to say the words ‘winter sun’ and the islands were being marketed as the ‘New Canary Islands’.

4. Panama

For Panama, the world economic crisis offered a perfect excuse to hit the reset button. After an unchecked growth spurt created a clutter of casinos, gated communities and glass towers in the name of Trump, the investment slump has forced a return to basics. For travellers, there’s a return to the authentic – local heartland festivals, jungle treks and lodgings in sand-floor huts in the independent Comarca de Kuna Yala. With plenty of the country still pristine, true adventure is only a boat or bus fare away. In 2011 Panama City gets greener, with the anticipated unveiling of the BíoMuseo, an innovative Frank Gehry-designed space celebrating ecological diversity. Panama City’s new Cinta Costera (Coastal Belt) creates a green stripe of waterfront paths that finishes in Casco Viejo, a stunning historic neighbourhood remade after decades of neglect. Like elsewhere, climate change and habitat destruction are taking their toll here. Panama’s inch-long golden frogs, victims of a worldwide epidemic, are fast disappearing. But the Darién Gap, considered one of the world’s wildest places, still remains roadless. Countless Panamanian islands persist without name or a sole inhabitant. Costa Rica eat your heart out.

5. Bulgaria

For those who looked, Bulgaria has always had its moments – in its biggest cities, on its snow-capped peaks and great-value ski fields, on its golden-sand beaches and in ancient Black Sea port towns. Yet, over the years, with history’s contribution, Bulgaria has got lost amid its more famous neighbours. From the south, the Ottoman soldiers of present-day Turkey ran Bulgaria for 500 years. Legendary toga-clad Greeks to the south mocked Bulgaria’s strong wines (before adopting the same). More recently, the Romanians claimed the share of fame via distinguishing Latin bloodlines and Transylvania’s mystic, fangy appeal. Bulgaria sometimes feels like the odd guy out in this corner of Europe. But things are changing. Now proudly part of the 21st-century EU, Bulgaria has enjoyed more attention – and self confidence. Its ski slopes are de facto destinations for Europeans looking for cheaper alternatives, empty patches of lovely Black Sea beaches can still be found, and its quietly brilliant wine industry is flourishing. Whatever happens, Bulgarians will take it in their stride. As one local song goes, ‘We win, we lose…either way we get drunk, we’re Bulgarians!’ That oughta be on a T-shirt.

6. Vanuatu

For those in search of authentic experiences, Vanuatu is hard to beat. From mighty mountains and thunderous waterfalls to remote villages, from huge lagoons to tropical islets, there’s so much on offer, far from the crowds. Don’t expect ritzy resorts and Cancun-style nightlife; with a good choice of family-run guesthouses in traditional villages and a smattering of comfortable, romantic hideaways, it’s tailor-made for ecotourists. With 83 islands, you’re spoilt for choice. Vanuatu has recently seen an increased number of direct flights from Australia, New Zealand, New Caledonia, Fiji and the Solomon Islands – go now, before the secret’s out.

7. Italy

Italy is a beguiling, beautiful, charismatic mess. The press might be largely owned by Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, stories of corruption, bribery and sex scandals might be everyday news, and the economy might be in the doldrums, but this is still one of the world’s most magnificent places to be. The food is delicious, sunshine is plentiful, scenery and towns are sublime, and there is millennia-worth of art to look at. There are 44 Unesco World Heritage Sites here, more than in any other country. That Italy is celebrating only 150 years as a country in 2011 (it was unified in 1861) highlights how clearly it still feels like a collection of regions. Local people hail from their region; their nationality comes second. Each region has a pronounced character and qualities worthy of the small nations they once were, which makes it particularly rewarding to explore Italy bit by bit.

8. Tanzania

It’s true, Tanzania is a place of great marvels – Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar… The names slip off the tongue like a roll call of Africa’s most alluring destinations. But that’s not all. It also has great herds of elephants in Ruaha, treeclimbing lions around Lake Manyara, chimpanzee sanctuaries in Gombe and Mahale and packs of wild dogs in Selous. There are also sunsets on the Rufiji River, when the water boils with hippos and crocodiles. In fact, the country has the whole panoply of east Africa’s wildlife – including such rarities as the red colobus monkey, black rhino, hawksbill and leatherback turtles and Pemba flying foxes – concentrated in an unrivalled collection of parks and reserves. So you think you’ve seen it all? We’re betting Tanzania still has a surprise or two for you.

9. Syria

Heard the one about Bashar al-Assad and the US Ambassador? Well it’s no joke. After five years of cold-shoulder treatment relations have thawed and Syria is officially off the naughty step. There’s a definite upwardly-mobile attitude taking over the streets, thanks in part to the state-controlled economy slowly being overhauled and the noose of the ‘Axis of Evil’ tag no longer hanging around the nation’s neck. Savvy tourists can lord it up like a pasha, staying in lovingly restored Ottoman palaces and sipping cappuccino after shopping it up in the souq. But with all this modernisation it’s good to see some things are still the same. Out east the Bedouin still herd their scraggly sheep and welcome strangers into goat-hair tents for tea. Aleppo and Damascus’ Old Cities remain mazes where the best maps won’t work, and the countryside is still a vast open-air museum, strewn with the abandoned playgrounds of fallen empires. With hospitality still a national obsession, the attitude to visitors hasn’t changed
either.

10. Japan

Japan has an ill-deserved reputation as an expensive destination where the English language is in short supply. But US$100 cuts of Kobe beef and the occasional Lost in Translation moment aside, Japan is surprisingly affordable and user-friendly. Before you go, stop by your local travel agency and purchase a Japan Rail Pass, which grants you unlimited access to the country’s sophisticated transport network. While Tokyo was ultimately unsuccessful in its bid for the 2016 Summer Olympics, the campaign resulted in increased English signage across the country. So, if Japan has been on your travel wishlist for a while, make this the year that you fi nally see the birthplace of sushi, sake and sumo.

Planning travel in 2011? You need Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel.

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Comments

1 November 2010 7:25PM julzetraveller Report this comment
Newcastle. I've been here for 32 years and it's fantastic. But don't tell anyone.
2 November 2010 2:08AM tomstar86 Report this comment
Talk about lazy journalism. The Tanzania section is just copy and pasted from the country page! Tsk tsk, LP.
2 November 2010 5:58AM digitravel Report this comment
Albania is a wonderful place to visit! During the summer you can relax in the undiscovered beaches. During the winter you can visit the marvelous climate of the mountains and the historical cities. You can get more help for hotel bookings and tours at www.digi-travel.com a local tour operator.
2 November 2010 7:23PM jmphoto Report this comment
Albania?!?! Number 1?!?!?!
Wow. I went there last year when I was travelling through the Balkans, and whilst there were positives there were a lot of negatives. Transport infrastructure is non-existent, slow and chaotic. The beaches of Dhermi and Drymades were covered in litter and broken beer bottles, prices were nothing like those quoted before arrival etc.
If you wanted to promote an unsung Balkan country how about Bosnia? The beauty amongst the scars of Sarajevo or Mostar far out-weigh anything to be found in Albania.
Obviously just my 2 cents...
2 November 2010 8:27PM pall_mall Report this comment
@jmphoto: Bosnia? Really Bosnia? man you're kidding me! i mean i know that bosnia is a destination but not the kind that you are talking about! i dont know when you were in albania, but i know fore sure one thing: that you are wrong about the infastucture. traffic might be chaotic because albanians dont like to follow rules, and you might be right for prices because when they see that you are tourist they give the prices in euro. come one!! it happens in every country: it happened to me in italy,greece, germany, poland :) beaches? great! alcoho? gooood!! ladies!!!! Awesome! a lot of interesting places to visit! what do you want more? take a deep breath and let's do it again!!
2 November 2010 10:35PM seanieboy Report this comment
Great News for Cape Verde! Incredibly informative, always updated, beautifully designed...MyCapeverdeInfo.com is the only website you will ever need when researching what to do in Cape Verde.
http://capeverde.mydestinationinfo.com/
2 November 2010 11:02PM hyllus Report this comment
I have been 2 times in Albania, in 1993 and this year 2010, all what I can say is that is a magic country. With very panaromic views I never have seen in other countries in Europe. Albania has much to do but there is a miracel change since my first visit in 93. Infrastructure is not very well but a new highway to the north just has finished, the highway passes through the valleys once impassable. But as I have heard the government's priorities are roads, which have changed a lot. There are many ancient places to visit, like Butrint in the border with Greece, Sarande. Apollonia in Fier, Kruja in Central Albania Rozafa castel in Shkodra(northwest). You must visit Albania to understand it.
3 November 2010 12:58AM ujvara Report this comment
I loved the article! Thanks for the tips. I would just love it if the pictures had tags on the countries, because sometimes it doesn't say where is it and it would be nice to know. Thanks!
3 November 2010 1:37AM guillermorj Report this comment
Wow... As a Costa Rican, what is the deal against us? Envied by the north, by the south, and it seems the Panamanians have transmitted such envy to the rest of the world. Come on... Panama may have the big buildings, but Costa Rica has everything else...
3 November 2010 2:31AM vsimic Report this comment
I agree with jmphoto, Albania is beautiful country but Bosnia offers more than people know. visit www.exploringbosnia.com and check just part of Bosnia
3 November 2010 3:45AM groundflegg Report this comment
I believe Lonely Planet just tries to be controversial. Shetlands better than Great Barrier reef? you must be joking. Apart from the fact it frequently rains there and is always windy and usually very cool, it cannot be better. It is totally different. Obviously Lonely Planet tries to push places that need tourists. Incidentally last winter went to NSW Australia. one would think judging the comments of the coordinating author in the intro. that all one wants to do is party. I have never read such a load of old tosh. Get real, even Aussies do not spend time partying and going to the beach, many we met rarely go to the beach, mostly they just work like us.
Generally I would say that Lonely Planet guides have really deteriorated in quality of information.
3 November 2010 3:48AM dchaverri Report this comment
@guillermorj; I don't get why you get mad because a single line. I'm a costarrican too, and since Panama is next to us, and turning into green massive tourism, that means direct competition to Costa Rica, that's it. It doesn't even say something offensive, and there's no trace of "envy" there, is a simple phrase, so is weird that someone gets offended for nothing
3 November 2010 5:44AM travelamplified Report this comment
I've been to 3 of the top 5 in the last few months - Albania, Brazil and Bulgaria. I agree with LP. Albania is awesome and if you avoid August, you can completely avoid the crowds. Ruins, beaches, undocumented castles - I recommend renting a car (very cheap to organise) and taking a flash light with you for castle exploration. Everyday was an adventure.
I've just spent the last few weeks in Bulgaria and fell in love with it. Again we rented a car for 17 Euros a day total. Veliko Tarnovo and Plovdiv were my highlights.
3 November 2010 7:03AM ditraveling Report this comment
Sheesh, I have a whole lot more traveling in my lifetime to do as I've only been to 1 of these 1o countries. While this may be a list to other LP readers, I'll consider this my own personal checklist!
3 November 2010 11:55AM ld10 Report this comment
Albania rocks. There is so much to see, discover and enjoy there. The food is delicious, and the whole experience is nothing but great. No wonder is chosen number ONE. Well Bosnia was left out of the list but it is mentioned in the comments. Don't be jealous neighbours, there is nothing wrong with a number one country nearby. Who knows, travelers who go to Albania might pass by to visit you too. Great for you my beautiful Shqiperi!
3 November 2010 7:11PM spacest Report this comment
The English signs in Japan were added for the 2002 World Cup, not the 2016 Olympics.
4 November 2010 12:11AM ashmantoronto Report this comment
Yes, Panama! I love Panama =) It's so inexpensive too, and for backpackers it's a great deal. $25/day is a plenty. Head to San Blas in the Kuna Yala...it's paradise!
http://ashmantravels.wordpress.com/2010/02/02/a-blast-in-san-blas/
4 November 2010 4:06AM dctrip Report this comment
This is such an awesome list. It's great that people want to make their way through it. The Balkans are great and still such a unique experience when in Europe.
Try this out for an itinerary:
-Start in Italy and enjoy all that Italy is already famous for.
-Take a ferry over to Albania and make your way up and down the country. There are all kinds of options and Durres/Tirana are great hubs from where to head north or south for amazing natural beauty and great food. The folks at Albania Express - http://alb-exp.com/welcome.aspx - have some neat trip ideas so give them a call.
-Drive to Pogradec in eastern Albania and cross over to Macedonia. Check out Lake Ohrid on both sides of the border and then make your way through Macedonia into Bulgaria.
-Wrap up your European adventure with a few days in Bulgaria.
There you have it - you've hit 3 of the 2011 top destinations (with Macedonia as a bonus)!!!
Share pics and stories if you go :)
4 November 2010 12:18PM wisdomhurts Report this comment
@ jmphoto - you have no idea what you are talking about.
I visited 6 out of these 10 countries & I can definitely agree that Albania deserves to be ranked #1. I was there this past summer (and plan on visiting this winter) & WOW did I have a GREAT time! The country has rapidly changed, & new & more things are being built. The south is amazing for resorts, beach, stuff like that, & also historical places to visit. The middle of Albania, like Tirana for example, is where a lot of new and improved things are being built & you'll never get bored. Northern Albanian has beautiful mountains & historical places to visit.
Also, I never felt like I was in danger in Albania & I don't even speak the language. Crime rate has lowered and change has improved. I highly recommend Albania for people to visit & in the future, Albania will definitely be a big-successful country.
Cheers!
4 November 2010 2:09PM emma69 Report this comment
Albania is remarkable, I was there in 2001,2005 and also in 2009. It is really a great country,The wildlife was spectacular. I seen bears,wolfs,lynxes and also wild boars. You just have to get out in the mountains, it really is beautiful. After you are done with the mountains, hit the beaches, they are really great. I prefer the beaches in Vlore and Saranda. Albania has better beaches then Italy. And also a must see are the towns of Berat and Gjirokastra. They are phenomenal! Albania is a small country, but it has so much to see, from waterfalls to old castles. check out Albania, I have and I went back three times, I am from Denmark and trust me, it is worth it!!
4 November 2010 2:25PM georgekian Report this comment
Go SYRIA !
5 November 2010 1:19AM islaekk Report this comment
So happy to see Panama on this list. We are building a resort and residence community on our island property Isla Palenque, in Panama's largely undiscovered Gulf of Chiriqui. There isn't better Panama real estate - and our development is sustainable, preserving 220 acres of the island to remain wild and beautiful. Eco adventure, authentic local culture, uncrowded beaches - Panama is truly a jewel, we love it here.
7 November 2010 1:41PM wreckstorainforest Report this comment
I'm so happy for Vanuatu became 6th in top 10 country,
7 December 2010 3:02PM pdpjones Report this comment
I'm off to Syria next month for first time since 1975 so I'll add my comment after that .... lot of amazing history from memory, friendly people, buses a bit slow but they got there, and it was quite cheap.
7 December 2010 4:20PM zsas Report this comment
Albania??? Come on LP, get your act together...seriously! Even the Albanians are surprised.....first Fifa's World Cup announcement, now Lonely Planet lol
7 December 2010 7:14PM planetlucon Report this comment
Vanuatu, only place I have visited amongst the top10, I still have lots of travelling to do. But I agree with wreckstorainforest. Such a beautiful part of our world. Diving and snorkelling is a must, visit a kindergarden in a local village and see kids enjoy life without macs, ipods, tv and wiis, bla bla. I hope the people and this country remain pure, just for their own sake:)
7 December 2010 7:16PM nipito Report this comment
I think Japan and Italy are the reasonable ones on this list.., especially Japan, never thought this country has unreasonable prices for everything, if you'd like to explore, then you wil find all the cheapest spot for things from head to toe, from food to fashion..
7 December 2010 10:26PM millymac22 Report this comment
My trip to Albania this summer was so frustrating that it's driven me to join a package tour for my next holiday - yep it was that bad!
8 December 2010 1:11AM t2hog Report this comment
I agree with jmphoto, Bosnia should be on the list! I visited the country in July this year and was very surprised! It was a lot better than I expected. Beautiful countryside.. Mostar is now my new favourite town in Europe! :-) And more people should choose Sarajevo as their weekend destination.
However, I have not been to Albania so I can not compare the two..
8 December 2010 1:31AM jacarter Report this comment
I can confirm that Japan is absolutely brilliant, having just returned, but also that's it is VERY expensive (TWICE as expensive as last time I visited in 2007). Also, the English language signs date from the World Cup in 2002, not from an Olympics bid!
8 December 2010 2:22AM gascoyne1 Report this comment
The Albanian people are warm, welcoming and have a great sense of humour . I have been discovering Albania across 5 visits now and never run out of surprises and spectacles to see. It is a fascinating place and you'll find different qualities wherever you go. The infrastructure is gradually getting there but often at the expense of spoiling some of the coastal areas. Let's hope the powers that be realise that Albania has something special, and they don't turn it into just another resort. Derek Smith
8 December 2010 7:37AM paymogo Report this comment
Hi, LP! I love your slideshows, but I have to say, the captions infuriate me. For example, in the slideshow for this story, the first image says, "Exterior of government buildings." But how do I know which city, or even country, this is in? Am I missing something painfully obvious? I've had this trouble with other slideshows too, and I often don't click all the way through for just that reason. Thanks!
8 December 2010 7:46AM nowornever Report this comment
hello, nothing against albania, but it has a long way to go to become a travellers hotspot.... brazil , ok, if you dont mind to feel constantly unsecure, bulgaria....tsss tssss, nothing against it, but......if you are on the road to tick off countries, well, you find something nice or interesting in every country,and if you live close by, ok, but to spend your holidays there......????
8 December 2010 7:47AM latinamericaforu Report this comment
Brazil is a well known destination in South America, nice country, wonderful beaches... however, I suggest Bolivia as a new destination in this Continent, specially Uyuni Salt Flats, a breathtaking place, especially at sunrise and sunset!
8 December 2010 7:54AM latinamericaforu Report this comment
to see photos from UYUNI SALT FLATS, please visit latinamericafou.com
8 December 2010 8:13AM pupstar Report this comment
Panama? That bit was poorly researched. I just returned from a 2 week stay in Panama City and was completely disgusted by how dirty the city was and how rude the people were. There was trash everywhere and the campaign to make Panama greener has come to a screeching halt with the financial crisis hitting hard. Casco Viejo is a historic neighborhood with the potential to be stunning, but it is still poorly cared for. It is sad. Hopefully they can get it right in the near future, but for now, Panama is definitely NOT a top 10 country for 2011. Go to Costa Rica instead, where the people are friendly and the environment is cared for.
8 December 2010 9:51AM auroratelenovela Report this comment
glad to see Syria is finally getting some love from Lonely Planet...last time I was there (with my lonely planet) the whole syria section of the guide basically just lamented the fact that they weren't in Lebanon instead. (recommending wine and cheese nights in Damascus? Kinda misses the point of what's so amazing about the city...) I'll take a night in Damascus over one in Beirut any day.
8 December 2010 6:30PM hildiko Report this comment
I visited Bosnia Herzegovina this year. It is an amazing beautiful country. :-) I didn't believe that the country will be my favourite place. The problem is, that a lot of people think that Balkan is a place where you can't see anything interesting. But Balkan is a very nice place in Europe..
8 December 2010 10:25PM elietheexplorer Report this comment
Interesting, very interesting...I agree and disagree with all of you guys and the LP too :-) Though I haven't had a chance yet to go to all these countries, but many many others, I understand why the LP has chosen them (though very cliché about them) and I look forward to discover some of them :-) apart from Brazil which is an amazing country where you don't feel insecure as long as you follow the rules (yes)(Bolivia-Colombia,etc is no better)where natural beauties will never cease to amaze,as well as culture, music, people etc...I don't know one person who has gone to Brazil and hasn't loved it! And I have seen literally it all:-) if you don't want adventure, like Julzetraveller, stay in Newcastle :-) hello to my British friends!
9 December 2010 12:14PM diafun Report this comment
Taiwan is more interesting, friendlier, and cheaper than Japan. I'm sorry to see this oversight!
10 December 2010 1:11AM ajisai Report this comment
Hi, everyone I'm posting from Japan and happy to find my country in the list. Our government is promoting tourism now and it will become more and more convinient for travellers from overseas. And if you like, please ask a volunteer tour guide. Some loval volunteer groups offer good tours and it will help you make your tour affordable and interesting!
10 December 2010 7:03AM anowlin12 Report this comment
I think we can all agree that when traveling and visiting different countries, everyone's experience is different. I traveled through Costa Rica and Panama last summer and I found Costa Rica to be way too much like the U.S. Almost everyone spoke English and refused to speak Spanish with tourists (which is a downside for me, a Spanish teacher), the people were not very friendly and it was quite expensive. Panama, was more reasonable in price, the people were very friendly and even though most people spoke English, they spoke Spanish with those that wanted the practice. I spent time in the Chiriqui highlands and I found Panama to be such an amazing and beautiful country filled with wonderful people. I am very excited Panama made the list!
10 December 2010 2:40PM madhi Report this comment
Hi,Why Sri Lanka is not included in this list?
12 December 2010 12:57PM latinskaamerikadnes Report this comment
Would have to agree with Albania. I went there during Kosovo war in 1999. I traveled a lot of the world, but going to Albania was like going to a different planet back then. There wasn't a single ATM in the country so I was left with no money. I was able to survive two weeks and work as a journalist with a budget of $0.000. I never forget when a man who gave me a ride on a small scooter and invited me to his home. They made dinner, bought Coca-cola as drink and moved their children to their bed so I could have a place to sleep. Needless to say we did not have a common language with exception of hand gestures and smiles. Would go back in a heart beat!
16 December 2010 3:43AM atravelist Report this comment
<a href="www.globespots.com/besttravel.php?year=2011">Globe Spots</a> has another top 10 list.
Vanuatu is the only coincident, but places like Albania and Syria are on Globe Spots' 2010 list (along with Bosnia Herzegovina, Taiwan and Sri Lanka) and Cape Verde is also old news (on the 2009 list).
27 December 2010 10:16AM avechaser Report this comment
List of top 10 anything bound to be highly subjective and no 2 people will agree. But there is no excuse for carelessness, outdated information and “blind-eyeism”. I like Panama but does it deserve to be in world top 10 for 2011? No. Eg Star mention for Biomuseum? It won’t be open in 2011. Cinta Costera? Little more than an urban freeway. Casco Viejo? Bits of it prettified, but "stunning" - never! National parks wonderful but you can hardly access them; no basic facilities, and few hiking trails now in disrepair or impassable. Mangroves being cut down for tourism and gated communities for ex-pats. Government has no clue about sensitive development – promotes only megaprojects. No doubt delighted by top 10 rating; think they are on right track when in reality they are way off it. Give Panama top 10 rating, but not before it earns it.
27 December 2010 4:24PM najibvevo Report this comment
What about Indonesia...?? Indonesia is the Mega Biodiversity, amazing country in South-east Asia, the 4th most populous in the world and 1st most populous Muslim country, the most strategic location between Asia and Australia and Pacific and Indian Ocean, the 16th largest country also the biggest archipelago country with 17.560 islands, having 3rd largest tropical rainforest with the most diverse flora and fauna no. 2 in the world after Brazil, having the most active volcanoes, most diverse marine animals because the heart of Coral Triangle and the peoples with 750-1.000 ethnic groups and the most indigenous languages, stretching 5.000 kM across Equator, the perfect climate. And the 2nd longest line coast after Canada. Having the biggest temple in the world is Borobudur Temple.
27 December 2010 4:36PM najibvevo Report this comment
The homechild of the President of United States Barack Obama, Indonesia is perfect country, buy Sate and Bakso. Speak Bahasa Indonesia (Indonesian language), playing Angklung and Orang puppet, Batik dress up. In Indonesia, you can found vacation spots such as Bali Island, Komodo National Park, Tana Toraja, Raja Ampat Islands in West Papua, Mentawai Islands, Jakarta City, Yogyakarta, Wakatobi, Lombok Island, Bandung, Bintan, Lake Toba, The highest point in Oceania 'The Carztens Peak', Derawan Islands, Bunaken, Maluku, Belitung and Bangka Islands and many more. Visit Indonesia 2011 and Enjoy Indonesia!
28 December 2010 6:21AM grillowilly Report this comment
To each his own. I loooooooved Panama. Warm people, beautiful scenery, stunning beaches, a modern capital city, a charming colonial quarter, and much more. Sounds to me like a few disgruntled people from a certain neighboring country are trying to scare people away from Panama.
3 January 2011 4:12AM spinfirst Report this comment
I'd highly recommend any of the wonderful places I visited on my 2010 round the world trip: Hong Kong, Singapore, Cairo, Istanbul (tops!), venice, Zurich, Bruges, London and Paris. You can check out all these places in my new round the world travel photo book: Around The World In 18 Days, now available on the App Store for iPad! Please check it out at http://www.AroundTheWorldBook.com Happy Travels!
3 January 2011 1:32PM citizienoftheworld Report this comment
Panama is the rising star, a country that only 10 years ago was destroyed by a US invasion, now stars as one of the top 10 tourist destinations. In Panama we not only have a virgin rainforest, but a modern city (number one in Central America AND many South America countries), a steadily growing economy, beaches, business opportunities, tax incentives, friendly people, safety, and, world class shopping (hello Costa Rica, Get a life!).
3 January 2011 1:50PM elargonauta63 Report this comment
I really believe that the commets of guillermo don't reflect the opinion of the majority of Costa Ricans that on regular basis travel to Panama and say how much the love it.
Panama is a country that is finding itself and in the process updating its image. It is so true that even from Costa Rica tours to The Panamanian islands are arrange. I think that Panama is an incredible place to visit and even stay. People are so cosmopolitan and beautiful. I just love Panama and you would too!
3 January 2011 2:03PM citizienoftheworld Report this comment
@pupstar. Where do you get your financial info? You must be writing about a different Panama. Panama is booming economically so that we are in 3rd position in the Latin American countries and next year we are projected to grow to be the leading economy so I do not know what financial crisis you are referring to. We are not perfect and we do have problems (less than the USA for sure) but we are fixing them and facing them and not looking the other way. Costa Rica is a nice country but people writing nonsense comments like yours make people believe that all people from that country think like you (I hope not).
4 January 2011 2:42AM vasenka Report this comment
I would add Serbia and Romania to the list.
4 January 2011 7:33AM dennisi_uk Report this comment
Albania top, no wonder i was this summer in albania and loved it so much that i am planing to go next month. people there are so nice and very friendly, i loved the clubs in tirana, and girls so nice.
i would deff recommend to any one this place is magic.
6 January 2011 8:09AM deltacharlymike Report this comment
We would definitely take Cape Verde of this list. My girlfriend and I went there for hiking last April. We had a very good time until we got brutally mugged in broad daylight on an excursion to Monte Verde. Afterwards, we experienced all the challenges of going to an underdeveloped country: a feckless police force, the lack of health infrastructure and incompetent doctors. Cape Verde might be a safe place for tourists if they stay in their hotels but it is definitely not a safe place for backpackers who want to discover the country on their own. Most guidebooks mention that Mindelo and Praia do have problems with violent crime. They tend to forget, however, that it does not stop there. Violent crime is not confined to these two cities, you can also get attacked in the mountains. We only learned about the size of the crime problem after the assault and we do not recommend to go to Cape Verde for holidays.
6 January 2011 3:12PM cless986 Report this comment
they kind of forgot to mention that Panama is the cheapest country to get wasted, get high, get laid, even all in one day!!! Have anyone heard about our Carnavales? lot of fun and insanity for 4 days :D Its coming soon and I hope that our water crisis and bad weather doesn't affect it
6 January 2011 3:38PM cless986 Report this comment
and your info of Panama is wrong!! Many of our "green" projects are kind of lame or aren't green at all; The president has recently approved many mines or projects that endanger our environment, he only thinks about how to maximize profits and nothing more. Athe city if full of trash because of the neglect (a mayor that don't want to pay more money and the obnoxious common citizen) We aren't friendly at all either, just try to rent a car and drive it in our city :D is hell Of course if you are white, you will get better treatment and service, but prepared to get ripoff (specially if taking a cab or paying for a tour)
So, Panama is a shitty place to travel to, except if you want to come here to get wasted, get high and get laid. And is true!!! Do other panamenians agree with me?
9 January 2011 12:28PM 2travel2know Report this comment
As a Panamanian I'm quite honour to see Panama made the list, but not to disappoint those wishing to visit the country, must advise travellers to take some of what Lonely Planet is saying about Panama (city, "going green") with a grain of salt. No matter what, for good or bad, visiting Panama can be quite an unforgettable experience.
10 January 2011 4:11AM torilin Report this comment
Panama used to be a gorgeous place. Now it's like everywhere else. Take my advice, skip it.
11 January 2011 2:25PM arginis Report this comment
Been a few years,but my last overseas vacation I really enjoyed Korea and Japan.There are areas close by Nagasaki where it seemed like I'd gone through a time warp.I was almost expecting to see sumerais or something.
17 January 2011 2:55AM globetrots Report this comment
This is a really badly researched article, which is inexcusable for a company with this much info at its fingertips. Japan is "surprisingly affordable"? Compared to what? Monaco? Beverly Hills? It's easily the most expensive country in the world right now for Americans and not much better for Europeans as the yen is at a record high. No wonder you didn't print the price of that rail pass. And Italy? What a cop-out. It's already on the cover of every travel magazine at least twice a year.
19 January 2011 2:32AM mistagee Report this comment
OK, a few things. Costa Rica correctly was left OFF the list. It is overhyped: expensive, average hotels, averagely friendly people, horrible food, and basically, a big yawn. Panama is much better: better food, wordly people, and a better development of hotels. Ive been to about 100 countries, so I would like to give you guys my list of 20 countries you should visit. Trust me on this one everyone.
1. Argentina 2. Sicily ( forget the rest of Italia) 3. Croatia 4. Portugal 5. Hungary 6. Australia 7. Colombia 8. Morocco 9. Turkey 10. USA 11. Canada 12. Iceland 13. Ireland 14. South Africa 15. Indonesia 16. Finland 17. Spain 18. Panama 19. Estonia 20. Peru
5 February 2011 9:16PM ramonn72 Report this comment
I'm proud to have been born and raised in PANAMA. I live in the U.S. I'm excited that I'll be visiting my home country again in April 2011, very appropriately. Lots of changes since the last time I was there. I'll be going to the San Blas islands for the first time ever. I've seen pictures and I was rendered speechless. I've read that the beaches in the province of Cocle have new resorts such as Decameron, Playa Blanca and others. Totally reccomend it. Congratulations Patria Mia for making it to the top 5!
12 February 2011 1:18AM intolatinamerica Report this comment
We totally agree that Panama is a great place for families. But personally I also think everyone should at least once visit the alien nation that is Japan!
19 February 2011 2:40AM lovelycountry Report this comment
Wow what a considence! I am so happy to see this article. I checked and read all the comments it seems that very few people know about Africa in particular the lovely land of Serengeti and Kilimanjaro - Tanzania. This country has a lot to offer at a go comparatively. Lovely people, good geographic location, three big lakes - Victoria, Tanganyika, Nyasa. Indian ocean to the East. Selous game reserve to the south, the most ammazing animal massive migration in the world. Spice Island of Zanzibar with the historic habour whereby slaves were shifted to other country. Well it will take me time to write down everything...the option is juts go there and dont thing twice, you will have a great fun not to forget you will even ask for more i can bet on that! The other country which is really amazing is Bulgaria... Lovely scene and greeny places, Black sea beaches, Bulgarian Wine, bulgarian yogurt, bulgarian salad, bulgarian girls, are the few things which i recommend you not to miss or ask for!
19 February 2011 2:40AM lovelycountry Report this comment
Wow what a considence! I am so happy to see this article. I checked and read all the comments it seems that very few people know about Africa in particular the lovely land of Serengeti and Kilimanjaro - Tanzania. This country has a lot to offer at a go comparatively. Lovely people, good geographic location, three big lakes - Victoria, Tanganyika, Nyasa. Indian ocean to the East. Selous game reserve to the south, the most ammazing animal massive migration in the world. Spice Island of Zanzibar with the historic habour whereby slaves were shifted to other country. Well it will take me time to write down everything...the option is juts go there and dont thing twice, you will have a great fun not to forget you will even ask for more i can bet on that! The other country which is really amazing is Bulgaria... Lovely scene and greeny places, Black sea beaches, Bulgarian Wine, bulgarian yogurt, bulgarian salad, bulgarian girls, are the few things which i recommend you not to miss or ask for!
31 March 2011 11:55PM gonnavisit Report this comment
I've seen people choosing some countries like: USA, France, Italy, Germany, Japan, China: places where you can go whenever you want and that everybody knows. It's interesting to go some places where you didn't know if they exist, to go, to search and to see..As for Albania I'm 100% sure that it wasn't visited until now just because of its enemies: most of them from Balkans. If you want to see the beautiful Albania go on Facebook and search: "Discover Albania". You'll see some fantastic views..
20 June 2011 9:36PM qleyo Report this comment
In love with Japan! Japan is not that expensive, especially when you leave Tokyo! Skiing there was one of the best experiences of my life. Brazil, Tanzania, Cape Verde, Vanuatu are all on my list. Bulgaria, Albania and Syriah are distant seconds.
Surprised not to see Indonesia or Vietnam on this list!
29 June 2011 3:38AM rosielarue Report this comment
Syria??? You have got to be kidding. I wouldn't have gone there a year ago, and certainly wouldn't go now. Shame on you for putting this notorious human rights violator on your list.
2 August 2011 5:18PM juicytours Report this comment
Thanks Lonely Planet. Good to see that you continue to be open minded about travel destinations and put some emerging places on travellers' radars. From avid travellers ourselves, we think that Albania is a unique and quirky place that satisfies alot of what we look for in our own trips - incredible beauty, friendly locals, fascinating history, yummy cuisine, guaranteed adventure. One of the only places left in the world that is not multicultural, nor completely overrun by globalisation. Already a couple of English packaged holiday resorts are planned, so we recommend that everyone gets here before it all changes and becomes just another Meditteranean country overrun by tourists. British airways flights from London in September only 60 euro. Gail @ Juicy Tours (www.juicytours.com.au)
5 August 2011 12:37PM mgseamanjr Report this comment
Note to Lonely Planet editors: Syria is back on the "Do NOT travel there" list.
5 August 2011 10:56PM 2t2 Report this comment
The birthplace of sushi is China and not Japan. Please do your research LP!
22 February 2012 7:43AM friendlybirdyyy Report this comment
I've just been skimming through these remarks and they're offensive. All countris have weak areas, which you guys are using as weapon against it being good. For instance Albania has some hidden areas, which some people haven't notice mainly because they stereotype. Sarande, In Albania is beautiful, the mountains ect. You shouldn't judge a books by, it's cover, or what you hear from people! you have to experience it yourself because things are shown in different perspectives. People think America, Spain are marvelous countries, but people haven't noticed the other countries! Before I'd never heard of Albania, but as soon as I visited it, it was a great experience, which I recommend.

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