Lonely Planet’s top 10 cities for 2011

Oct 31, 2010 9:38:19 PM

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Who doesn’t love a city? Lonely Planet has scoured the globe for next year’s hottest cities. Our top picks show that a city doesn’t need to be a heaving metropolis to get on the list. Then again, sometimes it helps. One of our favourites is the world’s largest city that cannot be reached by road. And there are even a couple of European cities that remain criminally underrated. Here they are, Lonely Planet’s top 10 cities for next year, ranked in order:

1. New York

Since 9/11, the site of the World Trade Center’s twin towers has stood out as a closed-off, out-of-view, painful gaping void. This year that changes, as the former WTC site finally reopens to the public with the National September 11 Memorial, a 6-acre, tree-filled plaza with 30ft-deep waterfalls at the footprint of the former towers, rimmed by the name of each victim and illuminated at night (its museum will follow in 2012). For the city, this will be more momentous than if the Yankees, Knicks, Rangers and Giants won simultaneous championships while the ball dropped in Times Square on New Year’s Eve. For all of New York, 11 September 2011 will be a defining moment.

2. Tangier

From its extraordinary position perched on the northwestern-most tip of Africa, Tangier looks in two directions: one face towards Spain and Europe, and the other into Africa. The ‘white city’ announces a culture excitingly different from that of its close cousins across the water. With the recent arrival of a new city governor, the town beach now sparkles, the hustlers are off the streets and even the taxi drivers are polite. A stylish new Tangier is being created with a dynamic arts community, renovated buildings, great shopping and chic new restaurants.

3. Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv is the total flipside of Jerusalem, a modern Sin City on the sea rather than an ancient Holy City on a hill. Hedonism is the one religion that unites its inhabitants. There are more bars than synagogues, God is a DJ and everyone’s body is a temple. Yet, scratch underneath the surface and Tel Aviv, or TLV, reveals itself as a truly diverse 21st-century Mediterranean hub. By far the most international city in Israel, Tel Aviv is also home to a large gay community, a kind of San Francisco in the Middle East. Thanks to its university and museums, it is also the greenhouse for Israel’s growing art, film and music scenes.

4. Wellington

Wellington is Cool-with-a-capital-C, crammed with more bars, cafes and restaurants per capita than New York, and a slew of gourmet producers including some 10 independent coffee roasteries. Year-round you’ll find arts and cultural events in abundance. Likewise, its film industry, ‘Wellywood’, centred on the Miramar Peninsula, is booming thanks in large part to the success of Wellingtonian Sir Peter Jackson (executive producer of the 2011 and 2012 Hobbit movies currently being made here). This little capital will be front-and-centre on the world stage in 2011 when New Zealand hosts the Rugby World Cup.

5. Valencia

Valencia sits coquettishly and again confidently along Spain’s Mediterranean coast. For centuries, it was overshadowed by larger Spanish cities – hard-nosed, commercially-minded Barcelona and Madrid, the nation’s capital. Not any more. While retaining its provincial charm, Spain’s third city now mixes with the international crowd. Host of a couple of America’s Cup yachting jamborees and an annual street circuit Formula 1 motor race, it’s also European Capital of Sport for 2011 and a favourite destination for conferences and congresses. Valencia enjoyed its golden age two full centuries before the rest of Spain.

6. Iquitos

After days forging by boat along rainforest-fringed rivers, Iquitos, mighty megalopolis of the Peruvian Amazon, comes as a shock to the system. Pulsating with life, the city’s latest boom is tourism: visitors may flock to reconnoitre the rainforest but taking time to imbibe Iquitos itself is imperative too. This is a sultry slice of Amazon life: Brazilian, Colombian, indigenous and expat. Clubs bounce to salsa and rock until the early hours with the vigour you’d expect of Peru’s jungle capital, but Iquitos is also a cultural hub: expect works by Peru’s top artists, opulent rubber-boom mansions and a museum on Amazon ethnography for starters. As a trading post for rainforest tribes, market mayhem and riverboat bustle are part of the package, all conspiring to fill the city with an addictive, round-the-clock energy.

7. Ghent

Here’s a secret within a secret: Ghent might just be the best European city you’ve never thought of visiting, in a country that continues to be criminally overlooked. Ghent hides away in the middle of Belgium’s big three – Brussels, Bruges and Antwerp. Most Belgium-bound visitors rushing between these see nothing more than the stately fortifications of Ghent’s St Pieter’s Station. Those who do hop off the train and stroll along the Leie River to the historic centre will have their eyes out on stalks. Here hides one of Europe’s finest panoramas of water, spires and centuries-old grand houses. But this is no place to simply kick back: Ghent has one of Europe’s most dynamic festival scenes, which vies for visitors’ attention. This year the entire centre will emerge from a major program of rebuilding designed to show off the huge pedestrianised squares.

8. Delhi

The great metropolis of Delhi, encompassing Old and New Delhi and sprawling out for miles, has not looked this smart and sparkling in centuries. Huge preparations for the Commonwealth Games, which took place in October 2010, improved the city’s infrastructure, cleaned up its streets and added to its accommodation options. Aside from, of course, a bounty of new or improved sporting facilities, there’s the marvellous artery of the Metro – an underground transport system that’s a futuristic, egalitarian world away from the sometimes chaotic, class-ridden situation above ground. This year marks 100 years since New Delhi was founded in 1911. At least eight cities are known to have been founded on this spot. The commemoration of this anniversary is sure to be a colourful and lively affair.

9. Newcastle

Is it Australia’s most underrated city? Anyone surprised to see Newcastle on the list of 2011′s hottest cities (and there’s a few of you, right?) probably hasn’t pulled in off the Pacific Highway, or at least not for a while. Newcastle flies under the radar of Aussies and international travellers in part because it’s overshadowed by its bigger, bolder and better-known sibling, Sydney, 150km south. But, at around one-tenth the size, Australia’s second-oldest city has Sydney-like assets: surf beaches, a sun-drenched subtropical climate, and diverse dining, nightlife and arts. Not only is Newcastle ideally located just two hours by road or rail or 30 minutes by plane or seaplane from Sydney, it’s less than an hour’s drive west to the Hunter Valley wineries, south to sailboat-filled Lake Macquarie, north to whale-watching and sharkfeeding at Port Stephens and to sandboarding at Stockton Beach (the southern end of the 32km-long beach is a five-minute ferry ride across Newcastle’s harbour).

10. Chiang Mai

If Chiang Mai were a person, it would be Bob Dylan. With a history dating back further than anyone can remember, its influence remains enormous. And despite its great age, there’s still a bohemian chic that makes it as relevant and hip as ever. Culture capital of Thailand, Chiang Mai was once the heart of the Lanna kingdom. Today those wanting to flee the bustle of Bangkok visit to lounge in coffee shops and drink in the city’s artisanal atmosphere. With a friendly, cosmopolitan feel, this is one easy, safe and pleasant place to explore. There are dozens of well-preserved temples here, too. Many new ecotours and adventure trips are appearing, and with a choice of river rafting, elephant rides, trekking and off-road cycling, even the biggest adrenaline junkie will be sated.

Planning travel in 2011? Start with Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel.

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Comments

1 November 2010 1:55PM dandv Report this comment
Newcastle, really number 9? As someone who has not only pulled off the Pacific Highway, but indeed taken up residence in Newcastle for the last 6 months, I might have to disagree with some of the 'wonders' of Newcastle as described above. Granted it does have lovely beaches, however, beyond that there is little to write home about. Considering its supposed close proximity to Sydney (which is actually more of a three hour train marathon, in trains which should have ceased usage in the 70s, than the mere hop-skip-and-jump that the review makes out), it lacks any of the culture. Restaurants worth visiting are limited to a very select few, although Darby street does have many places for a great breakfast, and in terms of drinking establishments, especially later in the evening, Newcastle is akin to the Sahara Desert. The Hunter Valley wine region is certainly worth a day or two, I would stay on the Pacific highway otherwise, and zoom on by Newcastle...
1 November 2010 3:33PM annamccabe Report this comment
I escaped to Newcastle this weekend to visit family - what a fantastic getaway!
Top 10 things to do when visit this best kept secret city:
1. Explore the cities beaches on the Bathers Way Walk. 2. Relax over beers and a bite on the sunny veranda at Customs House Hotel overlooking Newcastle Harbour and Nobbys Lighthouse. 3. Enjoy breakfast and great coffee at Estabar watching the surfers at Newcastle Beach. 4. Visit the Newcastle Region Art Gallery. 5. Go for a swim, surf or explore the rock platforms at Bar Beach. 6. Shop at Betty Mim boutique for gorgeous homewares and gifts. 7. Picnic in King Edward Park. 8. Play a game of tennis at The Hill Tennis Club. 9. Pick up some fresh local produce from the Newcastle Growers Markets (on every Sunday). 10. Do laps in Newcastle or Mereweather Beache's art deco Ocean Baths.
1 November 2010 7:27PM julzetraveller Report this comment
Newcastle. I've been here for 32 years and it's fantastic. But don't tell anyone.
2 November 2010 3:27AM madlene Report this comment
HOW ABOUT FORGOTTEN CITY CALLS YEREVAN, ARMENIA. SO MUCH HISTORY , NATURE, AND THINGS TO SEE!!! I NEVER HEAR OR SEE COMMENTS ABOUT THIS BEAUTIFUL PLACE.
2 November 2010 10:12AM djandypandy Report this comment
Strange list. These cities are from completely different categories and obviously entirely subjective. I have been to 5 of these places and there are only 2 of them that I would generally recommend as cool places to explore. Honestly, anyone who went out of there way to go to Delhi should go with looow expectations. But hey, LP needs to make some headlines so go ahead, make crazy statements.
2 November 2010 10:33AM danielkwood Report this comment
I'm amazed that Delhi made this list. There are so many other Indian cities that are much better than Delhi. The only thing I would say is good about Delhi is its connections (by train, rail or car) to Jaipur and Agra. There are some good markets, Humayun's Tomb and the red fort but not much else to get excited about. I wouldn't spend more than 2 or 3 days there myself. This is definately a strange list.
2 November 2010 4:57PM kiwiaroundtheworld Report this comment
Hi, I'm Kiwi, an adventurous bird and I have a plan!
Thnx for the tip!
www.facebook.com/TravelingKiwi www.twitter.com/traveling_kiwi
2 November 2010 7:17PM sophiacaitlin Report this comment
Newcastle? You have got to be joking! I've been there many a time and completely disagree with that review!
2 November 2010 7:17PM sophiacaitlin Report this comment
Newcastle? You have got to be joking! I've been there many a time and completely disagree with that review!
2 November 2010 7:44PM aussieange78 Report this comment
I grew up there and am a proud novacastrian, Newcastle has definately changed from my day, however the charm and culture is there hidden in the city's brash attempt to recover from the closure of the Big Happy Place otherwise known as BHP steelworks. To those commenters that have moved there and suddenly feel ripped off, give it a chance, and go looking for the hidden treasures Newie has to offer and you will find them.
2 November 2010 10:06PM dbetros Report this comment
Obviously the writer got laid in Newcastle The place is a dump
2 November 2010 10:10PM morgsy009 Report this comment
Is this 10 best cities a joke? I have been to Wellington & Newcastle. Wellington could be up there culture wise but doesnt offer enough to be a great city. Newcastle is a nice place but to be a top 10 world city is a joke. Id rather live in Newcastle than Sydney but there is no way it is a better city. Melbourne puts them all to bed with culture, sport, shopping, dining and also life style. Do I want to trust any of the top 10?
2 November 2010 10:29PM suvo Report this comment
I've been living in Valencia for 3 years now and absolutely love it.It's a fantastic city! Not too big, not too small.Great mix of the old and the futuristic. What to do in Valencia: 1)City of Arts and Sciences. Visit it twice, once by day and once by night. 2)Walk or cycle the old river bed 3)Take a short break from your walking or cycling tour in the river at the fountains in front of the music palace and listen to classical music here.4)Buy fresh produce at the beautiful Mercado Central.5)Eat a real paella for lunch (not for dinner, this is for tourists....;-) 6)have a picknick on the El Saler beach, a beautiful and quiet beach south of Valencia city 7) go hiking in the mountainous surroundings of Valencia, for example El Garbí,Estivella, Chelva 8) visit Valencia in Fallas, one of Europes most spectacular festivals 9) visit hidden treasures in the Valencia countryside, such as waterfalls and thermal hot springs 10)eat in local joints. Enjoy Valencia!
3 November 2010 1:05PM paulkd Report this comment
I'm from Manhattan, but the two weeks I spent in Newcastle, Australia, were simply wonderful. The atmosphere is perfect; laid back people and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Add to this a great dining scene and a lively nightlife. If in Sydney, hop on a train from Central Station straight to Newcastle. It takes about 2.5 hours, but you get to see some really rugged and beautiful scenery on the way. Once there, drop into customs house (its across the street from the train station). Its a huge church like building with a beautiful clock tower that was turned into an iconic bar and restaurant. Do the aussie thing; grab a beer and have a steak, all while looking out onto Newcastle's beautiful harbor. Then stroll up to Nobby's beach, go for a swim or check out the lighthouse. You can also check out Fort Scratchley (a fort from WWII) which is right next to Nobby's. All this is within about 10 minutes walking distance from the train station.
4 November 2010 1:55AM tiago_1979 Report this comment
Are you getting paid to do such thing???? I live in Tangier and I think you've never been here... I'm working here with other expats and everybody had a good laugh with your ranking!!!
4 November 2010 2:11AM mrgart Report this comment
YES! Unbelievable but true! Lonely Planet puts Iquitos on the map, and no city I ever visited deserves it more. After having lived here for four yeears, I am still amazed at how much this town has to offer, and at how unknown it remains in the world. Iquitos is in the heart of the Amazon Rainforest and definitely worth an extended visit. Visit ikitos.com for more information!
4 November 2010 12:18PM vold3000 Report this comment
Tangier I Love You!! I lived there for 20 years it was beautiful she took my heart...
4 November 2010 1:16PM cupidopoeta Report this comment
Desde Iquitos (Perú) también se puede llegar por río Amazonas a la ciudad de Leticia (Colombia)y a Tabatinga (Brasil), que también son ciudades muy alegres, también se puede llegar a Manaos (Brasil) y Belém do Pará (Brasil) y al Mar Atlántico. Los interesados pueden hacer un tour por toda la amazonia. Si desean más información escríbanme, yo vivo en Iquitos: erick_romero3000@hotmail.com. Estaré encantado en ayudarlos.
5 November 2010 12:32AM thomasseyfert Report this comment
Valencia...chapeau! Amazing incredible city. This is the biggest surprise made into city one can ever see today in Europe!! Sometimes classical, sometimes ultra modern. Sometimes calm, sometimes stressful. Sometimes large, sometimes tiny. Now I already know where to go when I need to experience senses to the fullest: The sense of sight, smell, taste, hearing and touch. Unvergessliche Stadt!
5 November 2010 1:07AM cwbush83 Report this comment
Fantastic to see Newcastle making an appearance on your list this year. I've lived there a few times and absolutely love the city. It's an untapped resource and even the locals underrate how much potential it has.
Hopefully the Lonely Planet seal of approval gives the area a much needed boost with tourists.
5 November 2010 1:58PM tara_leigh Report this comment
As a Novocastrian for 34 years, I can vouch for Newcastle being an amazing place to live. There is actually plenty of culture, with a vibrant art and live music scene and a myriad of excellent dining experiences for those who know where to look. No traffic hassles, great climate, beautiful beaches with free parking and plenty of room to move, boutique shopping, vineyards up the road, the beautiful Barrington Tops on the doorstep, Port Stephens and Nelson Bay... the list goes on.
The best part about it, however, is that people are friendly, it's cheap to live here and we are not Sydney! It is still an undiscovered treasure.
6 November 2010 11:21PM rickarmica Report this comment
those who disagree with Delhi didn't dig deep enough - it's a fascinating city that has so so much to offer - the old town is just phenomenal - I hated it the first time I went, but with time, grew to love it.
6 November 2010 11:26PM gever_tov Report this comment
Tel Aviv--- I visited last September, enjoyed immensley the beautiful clean beaches, warm and friendly sea-water and people, museums, lots of cultural activities, comopolitan crowd, liberal, open-minded, "Ir Lelo Hafsaka" - "A City that Never Stops" celebrating day and night. I will be back.
8 November 2010 6:09PM isralove Report this comment
Well there is always going to be that narrow minded racist bully to comment on everything Israeli or Jewish OK you made your statement happy! now let open minded and positive people who like to travel make their comments BTW people like you are not welcome in Tel-Aviv.
10 November 2010 9:27AM greenvalet Report this comment
This list is trying a little too hard to be wacky and out there.... The truth is that Delhi is one of the biggest s**tpits in the world and Newcastle is pretty much like the rest of Australia; safe and clean but culturally redundant.... Apart from that though, the list is still rubbish! ;-)
11 November 2010 1:46AM kharimata Report this comment
nobody talks about Ghent! i guess it means that it is a well-kept secret so come and find out if it should be on the list or not... but I believe it's true what they say about Ghent, and i think it is crazy this small nice place comes on number 7 in this list between huge cities, but it deserves to be there totally! charming!
12 November 2010 2:47AM moutin Report this comment
J'ai une maison au coeur de la médina de Tanger et je suis aussi tombé amoureux de cette ville, qui n'est peut être pas la 2° plus belle du monde, mais est celle où je me sens le mieux, celle où les gens prennent le temps de vivre.
26 November 2010 4:51PM lozzieg82 Report this comment
I am a proud Newcastle girl and was thrilled to see my beautiful city in the top for 2011. Anyone who thinks it is a dump has obviously not got into the rhythem of a city that marches to its own beat. I now live in Sydney and miss my hometown with its beautiful beaches and relaxed lifestyle. GO NEWCASTLE!!!!!
20 December 2010 8:51PM vivalas Report this comment
Newcastle! Fabulous city. Best place in the world if you ask me - but don't tell anyone - it's meant to be our secret!
21 December 2010 5:19AM top10places Report this comment
nice places. but I do not like New York
21 December 2010 7:44PM titti63 Report this comment
No Italy at all? Perugia, Pistoia, Ferrara, there's plenty unknown beautiful places.
21 December 2010 8:14PM esnoubor Report this comment
Tangier? The crappiest place in Morocco... I went there several times and have been glad every time I didn´t have to spend the night there. Come on, Tangier is not nice!
21 December 2010 11:12PM adfish4709 Report this comment
An interesting group of Cities, however, one city that I feel should be in the list is Vancouver. We visted there in the summer of 2008 during a World Trip covering, Singapore, Perth, Sydney, Newcastle, Christchurch, Wellington, Aukland, Nani, Suva, L.A. and Vancouver. Of all the cities visited Vancouver was our favourite. It is set in a spectacular location, water, mountains etc; plus tremendous facilities and the warmth from the people there. A definite contender.
22 December 2010 12:11AM rhondalerner Report this comment
I respect LP's travel information, however, having just spent a week in City #8, I'm wondering who paid them off. Terrible recommendation. We're wintering in City #10 and it's a gem!
22 December 2010 12:23AM jalowe Report this comment
Kharimata, I'm totally with you! I've lived in Brussels for more than 3 years now and have travelled all over Belgium and much of Europe, and I absolutely love Ghent! It's beautiful, historical, youthful and cultured, and despite all that it manages to avoid becoming a tourist trap. An amazing place!
All of Belgium is highly underrated actually, and I'd recommend a visit to anyone looking to see something of Europe besides the typical London-Paris-Rome tourist parade.
22 December 2010 12:32AM carlostanner Report this comment
I thought the list was great. Of course, everyone's experience to any destination is subjective, but LP has done a great job at letting us know about the most profound recent changes and improvements to places around the world. While I have only been to a couple of the cities on the list, I most certainly agree with them being on the list. I live in Iquitos and think one special reason why it deserves to be on the list but was not mentioned is that is the global hub for experiencing ayahuasca, the sacred medicine that allows entrance to the spiritual dimensions and makes healing any and all afflictions possible. There are a number of respectable tour groups operating in and around the city, and shamans have flocked to the city to bring their wisdom and knowledge of plant spirit healing, called curanderismo, to the travelers of the world. I recommend checking out the Ayahuasca Foundation for more information, and I definitely recommend visiting Iquitos, Peru.
22 December 2010 1:25AM ansh_jain_97 Report this comment
I lived in delhi for 4 years, and I like it. I disagree with some reviews above--delhi's greta.
26 December 2010 1:03AM marisse_redblossom Report this comment
I'm going to Wellington in 2011, already set with my family! :D
26 December 2010 9:51AM chitterchat Report this comment
The list is completely unrealistic as most of the little towns above (with exception of NY and Delhi) are too small in status to be considered a city. New York is big and brash but over-rated, unfriendly and expensive. Newcastle is not a patch on Sydney (not much is). Sydney remains one of the most liveable, friendly and multicultural cities on earth with the world's most beautiful, sparking harbour (unlike the "dead" and unused harbour of Vancouver). I'm originally from Melbourne which is an absolutely fantastic city rivalling anything outlined above. Sydney and Melbourne have one of the liveliest, exciting cultures on earth ... I should know, I have travelled the world many times over and am always relieved to get back to Australia. Yes, it is safe, it is clean and its biggest advantage is that it is miles from the woes, pollution and troubles of the disintegrating standards of the northern hemisphere!
26 December 2010 12:24PM ww3zombie Report this comment
I was recently in Chang Mai after an absence of 10 years and was very disappointed.Ten years ago it was as you described back,laid back,relaxed and with a village feel.Now,all that has gone.The air pollution is appalling as a result of huge nos of tuk tuks,motorcycles all belching black smoke.I walked for 3 hours one day all across the city and it was very unpleasant.The night-market is a waste of time but there are several Pagodas worth visiting and U can do brief courses in Meditation.The countryside is attractive.Forget about Chiang Mai unless you are transiting on the way to other places.Its an over rated dump.
26 December 2010 4:34PM ninjasmurf Report this comment
Newcastle is an interesting choice. So glad not to see Sydney up there - an expensive, dirty place of concrete and no soul. It's also not very safe - I know people how have been bashed there, one person who has been stabbed there and another person who has been shot there.
I'm surprised Tokyo doesn't get a mention. An amazing, vibrant city if there ever was one.
26 December 2010 9:08PM tammydeb Report this comment
Tel Aviv is a great city, but IMHO doesn't compare to Jerusalem. What's great about visiting Israel, though, is that you can see BOTH very different cities with so many things to offer -- and they're only an hour away from each other!
And given how small the country is, it's amazing what else you can see in just a short period of time, plus how radically the topography can change in five-ten minutes of driving (drive out of Jerusalem towards the itself-incredible Dead-Sea and you're immediately in the stark and beautiful Judean desert; drive in the opposite direction (west, towards Tel Aviv) and you're in the lush Judean mountains.
27 December 2010 3:46AM ww3zombie Report this comment
Clearly the positive attributes of a city wrt living there may be different to those who are passing through.Maybe thats why Newcastle has its patriots.I dont think a traveller would stay long.Im glad to see Chiang Mai as no 10 but it should be a lot lower.Its definitely on the tourist map but should have come off a long time ago.Bangkok is a thousand times better.Very few stay more than 2or3nights and thats too much IMHO.BTW,Tel Aviv is not to be missed if UR in the M East.I was in Tangier in 1986 and liked it.Ask Paul Bowles.
28 December 2010 5:21PM mrgmcnulty Report this comment
I escaped FROM Newcastle when I was one. I've never looked back.
29 December 2010 9:26AM spinfirst Report this comment
What about Istanbul? Such an exciting and vibrant city, and a heck of a lot cheaper than New York! I stopped in there on a round the world trip, fantastic city to explore. Please check out the book of my trip, with video, photos and more exclusively for iPad: Around The World In 18 Days - http://www.aroundtheworldbook.com - Happy Travels!
2 January 2011 1:59PM jem1381 Report this comment
Newcastle if you love water and water sports you will find yourself in love with Newcastle and its surrounding areas. The wonderful lake Macquarie the largest salt water lake in the Sothern hemisphere Nelson bay full of white sandy beaches and boutique shops The Stockton beach sand dunes, a playground for four wheel driving and quad biking, the home to a historic ship wreak. The bogy hole a hidden secret to the locals. Newcastle’s port and many beaches and baths. Canoeing, kayaking, surfing ,diving, deep sea fishing and yes shopping! Find the hidden gems in Darby street and more mainstream modern complexes are five mins from Newcastle's city centre! The hunter valley offers wines cheese and good food only an hour away. Newcastle used to be a very unappealing place but in the last few years it has evolved and grown ,it now boats mixture of modern development and historic charm but remains true to its beauty.
3 January 2011 7:41AM abmenon Report this comment
The diatribe against delhi is not unexpected given the differing expectations from many of a touristic place. Cleanliness levels are not comparable to many other cities but its the life, vibrancy, crowds and if you euphemistically say "chaos" that drives the place. Historally rich, an amalgamation of varied Indian cultures, great markets, great eating options including the lipsmacking street food, modern buildings, good infrastructure, multiplexes with all the major brand names are some of the options. So if you have realistic expectations and read up on the South Asian culture before embarking, it could be real fun.
5 January 2011 6:55AM mostinterestingman Report this comment
An interesting list. I've been to 7 of these, and agree they are unique. Certainly agree with NY, considering the 9/11 anniversary. Love Ghent and Valencia (esp for Fallas). Nix on Newcastle, Delhi, Chang Mai, and Wellington. How about Wash DC for 150 yr anniv of Civil War? I might include Mendoza, Helsinki/Tallinn (right across the water), Bologna, and Hanoi.
5 January 2011 7:13AM shibbygirl Report this comment
*as a New Yorker, I'm a bit disappointed in the reason they give to visit. New Yorkers are not as obsessed with 9/11 as the rest of America. As with most tourist traps, you will not find a new yorker at the Museum/memorial unless they are families of the victims. We will all remember, but please don't define NY as 9/11 land...
20 January 2011 4:05PM canadasteve Report this comment
To chitterchat who thinks Vancouver's harbour is "dead", what planet are you on? It's no south Pacific paradise but there's lots going on there, from recreation to transportation to industry - hardly "dead". Regarding the cities, it's nice to see cities named that aren't megalopolises, a city doesn't have to be huge to be worthwhile. Lastly, Lonely Planet can't name the same 10 cities every year - there are the same obvious contenders every year (Paris, anyone?) but they seem to be trying to tie the recommendations together with special events where possible, and suggest cities that are likely not on peoples' radar. Hopefully travellers aren't going to visit these cities on LP's say so, but this may serve as a starting point for people to consider places that might otherwise never have occurred to them.
25 January 2011 6:09PM easytogothen Report this comment
I've been living in Newcastle for nearly a year and a half now, in the CBD area, and I would not encourage people to visit a town where the streets are a ghost town after 6pm. The only person you want to run into in Newcastle is the police because the drug and alcohol problem is out of control and has been for several years, you can find plenty of information about the drug and vandalism problem. If you're out at night, be sure to stay in well populated,lit, and busy areas, the young kids here like to drink too much and fight any one, destroy public property, and urinate everywhere. They have no respect for people, their town, or themselves. During the day though, its a nice place to see but you can see it in a day.
28 January 2011 12:39AM siddharthajoshi Report this comment
Aha...quite a list! I am sure to visit Delhi soon as I live in India, but the rest look tempting too :)
28 January 2011 3:19PM brezzabella Report this comment
WOW - it's about time Newcastle received the accolades of being one of the top 10 places to visit in the world and of course Australia. Great lifestyle, fabulous beaches, cafes/restaurants, shopping precincts, friendly people, fantastic walks/bike rides/water sports etc - you're missing out if you don't spend some time in this great part of the world. Today the water is glistening, the sun is shining and life is good. Did I mention the close proximity to some of the best vineyards in Australia!! COME AND EXPERIENCE THIS HIDDEN TREASURE.
1 February 2011 2:55PM easytogothen Report this comment
Sounds like this last post was from the city council in Newcastle. you talk to the locals here, they'll tell you how the police department is corrupt and basically non existant. They'll tell you how the kids vandalize the streets, urinating in the city center infront of stores and homes. They'll tell you to get your fun in during the day light and be careful at night. I think Newcastle is a beautiful place, but I don't think you should advertise for people to visit a place where they have a problem controlling the drug and alcohol abuse in there town. By doing so, you're putting people in danger.
4 February 2011 3:32PM storytripping Report this comment
NYC on yet another list...but for 9/11? We've lived on and off in New York for so many years, but there's so much more to the entire state, and not just the city, than 9/11 memorials. Skip the tourist attractions and hawkers near the WTC and try out the diverse communities in Queens and Brooklyn, the abundance of different foods, the subway stops where no tourists go, and the farmlands, hiking, camping, and waterfalls upstate. In fact, if you're into exploring, wouldn't it be best to IGNORE this list? Go on a real adventure and visit www.storytripping.com to share your stories, because we love reading what happens when people go off the path, especially outside of the cities. How about a best small town out in the beautiful countryside list? LP, we appreciate your suggestions, but let's see you branch out next year into some destinations we're really not familiar with, and leave the usual cities off!
8 February 2011 10:33AM gmoneyeftpos Report this comment
These are my favourite places of all time (obviously it's totally subjective)
1. New York 2. London 3. Sydney 4. Budapest 5. Vienna 6. York 7. Newcastle (oz) 8. Paris 9. Goulburn 10.Invercargill
10 March 2011 2:08PM nscc Report this comment
I found this hilarious that Newcastle NSW was on the list, it should not be there at all!! Or even the Gold Coast, Sydney or Melbourne are a million times better. How about Lake Como in Italy or some of the Greek Islands?
18 March 2011 2:32AM jeje6948 Report this comment
I'd rather put Mumbai instad of Delhi
2 May 2011 9:26PM johnped521 Report this comment
WHAT!! CHIANG MAI!! I RATHER CHOOSER CHICAGO, SYDNEY, HONOLULU, CEBU, BEIJING, HONGKONG OR SINGAPORE.
I THINK THAT IS SPONSORSHIP
5 May 2011 1:15PM jjneto2 Report this comment
As John sad, it is a suspicious list. Or, again, job of a careless writer. We can easily find a pattern on LP "most something places" lists:
1. ALways include one or more USA places on a list - good marketing strategy 2. Always include an oriental city - asian exotic flavour and politicaly correct 3. Always onclude something of Peru - the surprise suggestion 4. Always include somewhere thar a lot of people know but few likes - the "I don´t care" strategy or "create noise policy"
8 May 2011 5:04PM gotherenow Report this comment
Do not come to Newcastle. The city is a ghost from 6pm, there is a massive alcohol and drug culture and the city is filled with derelict people that steal from and bash innocent people. The Newcastle City Council is a joke and in the middle of the CBD is a 'swamp' of a run down railroad.
9 May 2011 7:42AM lostprophet Report this comment
Don't agree with those who believe that Delhi shouldn't have made the list. A city that speaks of history, civilizations, dynasties and heroics of the past and politics, modernization, brand culture, nationality and globalization from the present in perfect harmony.... It gives an insight into India. The Indian kaleidoscope with flashes of Rulers, Autocrats, Businessmen, entrepreneurs n the Indian common man... And with metro connectivity and CWG related improvements, it is a treat of an experience, for those who observe....!!!!
11 June 2011 5:54PM drrealitycheck Report this comment
Your list was an odd one. Tangiers is an interesting city but rates only an overnight visit, other cities in Morocco are much more interesting. The comments on Tel Aviv were very offensive and seemed intended to offend, really poor judgement and taste. Also, Tel Aviv is the only city in Israel that isn't at all international; only one ethnic group allowed to live in the city, unlike the rest of the country. By the way, we spent a few weeks a few years ago in Brazil. Our best times involving ignoring the advice of your guidebook, such as your panning a particular Amazon tour we immensely enjoyed. The only time we followed your advice; avoiding a Paraguayan city near Iguassu; we realized later it was a mistake to miss it.
15 June 2011 7:58PM bentom1 Report this comment
I agree with comments about Tangier being a one night stop! In fact we have spent several days waiting for trains to other far more interesting places in Morocco than this typical port/border town with its seedy beach front and hordes of day trippers from Spain. Where is Fes in this list?!
17 June 2011 1:46AM chazdude Report this comment
Guys it´s just a list. Chill out.
19 July 2011 11:19PM milagro Report this comment
Cool that you put Ghent on the list. It is my one of my few favourite cities in Belgium (the other would be Leuven). Quite like Bruges, only in a much nicer version.
3 August 2011 5:07PM hotel_savoy_jaipur Report this comment
Nice to see delhi in the list but wish Jaipur could also appear , Isnt it a nice city people, with so much to give and such great culture , lovely heritage havelis and palaces , its a pleasure to see how the Kings had a luxurious lifestyle.. but Im sure Jaipur will soon appear in the list.. Luv Jaipur
24 September 2011 10:03AM animil Report this comment
Lol...this is funny! tangier as #2!, I definetely agree with the comments It is no more than one night stop in a matter of fact if you can avoid Tangier an go to another city in Morroco you would no be missing anything but saving yourself time. I have never felt so unwelcome in any place that I have ever been (..and I have to say that I am from Colombia).
20 October 2011 2:43PM na101 Report this comment
Chiangmai is an easy living city. Most elder both thai and foreigner love to live the rest of their life here.
1 November 2011 1:55PM mdroc1 Report this comment
Travelled the world extensively. Top 10: 1) Krakow (Poland) 2) Paris (France) 3) Prague (Czech Republic) 4) Heidelberg (Germany) 5) Las Vegas (USA) 7) Elat (Israel) 8) Vienna (Austria) 9) Penang (Malaysia) 10) Sint Maarten (Caribbean)
As for New York, I liked it, but didn't have been drooling. The energy is infectious and many things to do for everyone, but its nonetheless a concrete jungle and weather is uncomfortable during summer and winter.
London is a dense squallar these days with poor weather, but its beauty, party-scene, history and proximity to the rest of europe gives it points.
Haven't been to China or Russia yet, so I"m open to changing my mind.
2 November 2011 12:42PM pommie7 Report this comment
I was about to leave my comments, but dandv have done it for me. I came to Newcastle on the back of this and what a mistake.
What a run down hole of a place it is. Sure the beaches are great, but that's about it. Sure there are plenty of restuarants, but most aren't that good and they are spread over streets which are not safe after dark. The rest is a derelict industrial nightmare populated by rednecks, drunks and inbreeds.
If you're expecting high class beachfront living, do not repeat DO NOT consider Newcastle as a place.
7 November 2011 9:41AM hellz55 Report this comment
Yeah it's weird you picked Newcastle, Melbourne is much better. As for Wellington (I have lived there my whole life) I totally love it! Do NOT expect good weather or beaches, cause we have neither. But it is quaint, has the best food and coffee and people, and good shopping. Nothings open after 6, and there is not a lot to do but hang out, drink coffee and read, just the way I like it :)
8 November 2011 12:49AM renodnol Report this comment
New Delhi - Part 1 India is a mess! Even in its capital city! New Delhi is the dirtiest among all capital cities of the developed and developing countries and it's very poorly managed. Monsoon is as common as diahhrea in India. New Delhi is very poor in managing this regular natural phenom that's been assaulting the city / country multiple times yearly for centuries. How poor the conditions are in one monsoon season? (Please see part 2)
8 November 2011 12:50AM renodnol Report this comment
N Delhi (part 2) Flooding - debris, human wastes dirty water floating all over the place, collapsing live wires causing numerous lethal electrocutions, dozens of cases of crumbling trees /walls / dilapidated structures/potholes/ shoddy roads.. even when the downpours subside, the city is going to face another big challenge: the situation of hygiene turns from bad to worse and then the chaos of the outbreak of strings of infectious diseases. Oh, did I mention New Delhi is also one of the top paradises for rapists? I wonder when did LP start to mix up huge charity payments to India with its stance for fair evaluation!
21 May 2012 4:46PM dabar Report this comment
Newcastle! Is more then what meets the eye..as a travelling student I've been here now almost 2 years-it may not have the up-beat lifestyle many look for but the relaxing and easy going environment does wonders for me. And seriously what city doesn't have its issues/problems? That [safety] just comes down to common sense doesn't it? The morale of this review is to educate and build positive attitudes surrounding people's various concepts about city [even a subject]. Newcastle needs this kinds of reviews, it's livlihood depends largely on the historical path it played for Australia. I am looking forward to a followup review if there is one taking place.