10: GERMANY
Lonely Planet: “Two words: World Cup”
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9: COLOMBIA
Lonely Planet: “Now is the time to go, Colombia is still well off the gringo trail and you’ll only have to share the swaying wax palms and sweaty salsa clubs with a handful of hardy travellers (and crowds of friendly Colombians). It’s modern, vibrant and one of the best value places in South America, allowing you to live it up without decimating your dinero.”
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8: INDIA
Lonely Planet: “The tsunami in the south and the earthquake in the north have forced it back in the spotlight; people are interested in not only seeing this country but participating in its travel comeback (specifically in the areas affected). It also is on the forefront because of U.S. jobs moving in that direction; people are curious to know about it -- it still seems exotic but safer and easier than it has in the past.”
Read more about India
7: CANADA
Lonely Planet: “From the urban pleasures of Toronto and Vancouver to the rural splendors of Nova Scotia and British Columbia, Canada offers a something-for-everyone assortment of close-to-home treasures.” Another Lonely Planet staffer focused on Quebec: “With the US dollar so weak against the Euro, and the rising price of airline tickets due to fuel costs, who can afford France? Luckily, the Canadian province of Quebec is close by, affordable and absolutely stunning. Montreal is a gorgeous, lively, cultured, bohemian and friendly city with incredible architecture, food and nightlife.”
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6: ANTARCTICA
Lonely Planet: “It’s easy - March of the Penguins.”
Read more about Antarctica
5: MEXICO
Lonely Planet: “Ah, Mexico, the culture, food, beaches, charm, value and proximity -- a Mexico vacation can't be beat!” Another Lonely Planet employee singled out “the whole Pacific coast of Mexico because with the exception of a few resort towns, it's much less developed than the Yucatan side and it might not stay that way for long.” A third Lonely Planet staffer was even more precise: “Oaxaca city and the coast of Oaxaca state because it's so 'real Mexico' yet also has the sunny beaches we love so much.”
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4: CROATIA
Lonely Planet: Croatia was the top choice in the Lonely Planet poll last year and staffers cited the same attractions this time. As one Lonely Planet staffer summarized, “Even though Croatia made a quantum leap in popularity this year, it still offers travelers so much: a spectacularly beautiful coast and islands, great culture, history and cuisine, and the alluring combination of a reliable tourist infrastructure without the tourist crowds of its Mediterranean neighbors – and still at an affordable price!”
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3: NICARAGUA
Lonely Planet: "In 2004, there was a 16 percent increase in travel to Nicaragua, with the largest share of visitors coming from the United States. Nicaragua has been a hot surfing destination and has seen unprecedented surfing coverage in the press over the past year. It’s the one to watch in 2006 as the media attempt to find the ‘next Costa Rica.’” A second Lonely planet staffer concurred, saying, “There's a cool kid factor to visiting this place -- it's safe, the people are very friendly, there's a lot to do, yet it still has this perception of being dangerous. It's gonna pop, no doubt.”
Read more about Nicaragua
2: CHINA
Lonely Planet: “The Olympics are coming to Beijing in 2008, the Shanghai World Fair will be held in 2010, and people are finally beginning to recognize China as the world's next economic superpower. They’re curious to know more.” A second Lonely Planet staffer focused on Beijing: “Beijing has so many famous Chinese historical landmarks, such as the Great Wall. The city is also filled with amazing gardens and temples.” A third Lonely Planet employee touted Shanghai: “For those who do not know how to speak the Chinese language but want to experience some Chinese culture, Shanghai is perfect: a place that’s new to many, but with Western influences, flourishing businesses, exciting nightlife -- and beautiful women with great skin! In 2006, Shanghai will be the new New York of the East.”
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1: ARGENTINA!
Lonely Planet: “Why?” one Lonely Planet staffer wrote. “It offers extraordinary natural beauty, it’s inexpensive, it’s culturally rich yet modern. Argentina is almost like the New Zealand of South America.” Another Lonely Planet staffer said: “This country is sizzling. It’s got fabulous culture, food, wine, countryside, outdoors (Patagonia anyone?); it’s welcoming to travelers, safe and still very affordable due to exchange rates. What more could anyone want?”
Read more about Argentina
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