South Africa Rates Poorly

The USTOA has issued its first 'World's Best' list, ranking destinations in a variety of categories. Italy took top honors, as best destination in four categories: architecture, walking, romance, and culinary/wine experience. The country also trailed just behind France as best for art and culture, with France second as best destination for a romantic vacation. London was placed first for entertainment, with New York and Rio de Janeiro closely tied for second spot. However, New York edged out both Hong Kong and Italy as best shopping destination. Winning destinations were based on informal rankings by more than 50 of the top companies arranging vacation experiences, tours, and packages worldwide.

Best for:

Adventure, Soft Adventure:

Costa Rica
New Zealand

Architecture:

Italy - cited by nearly 55% of respondents
Spain - cited by some 30%

Art & Culture:

France - cited by more than 50%
Italy - cited by, 40%

Entertainment:

London
New York
Rio de Janiero

History:

Egypt
United Kingdom
Israel

Romantic Occasion:

Italy - cited by 50%
France - cited by more than 40%

Shopping:

New York City - cited by one-third of respondents
Hong Kong - cited by nearly 30%
Italy - cited by 25%

Walking:

Italy
US Western National Parks
Prague

Wine, Dining, & Culinary Experience:

Italy - cited by 45%
France - cited by 20%
Spain - cited by, 13%
Napa Valley - cited by 12%