Lonely Planet's 'Best in Travel' selection very different for 2021
Every year Lonely Planet produces a highly-anticipated list ranking of the top spots to travel. This time, the travel publisher wants to celebrate commitment to community, diversity and sustainability across the world.
Refugee Voices Tour, Germany
With the new ranking Lonely Planet wants to show "how the world and the attitude towards travel have changed." Included in the ranking is the "Refugee Voices Tour" by Hesham Moadamani, who offers guided tours around Berlin. Based on his own experiences, he shows parallels between the current Syrian conflict and the history of migration in Germany.
Invisible Cities, Great Britain
The British initiative "Invisible Cities" also received an award for its social commitment in the field of city tours. In this initiative, people affected by homelessness offer guided tours in their own city after receiving some basic training. This gives the guides an income and the opportunity to share their stories and interests with others.
Faroe Islands
The Faroe Islands' community spirit has put them on the Lonely Planet list. But also the impressive natural spectacles — from the cliffs to the waterfalls. Every year in April the islands close for maintenance purposes. During this time, the locals host 100 volunteers who repair hiking trails and help to preserve the landscape.
Tesfa Tours, Ethiopia
The initiative Tesfa Tours, where locals show tourists around the extraordinary landscapes of Ethiopia, is also about promoting local tourism. In addition to experiencing nature on the trekking tours, cultural history is also presented, such as the fortified city of Fasil Ghebbi, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Medellin, Colombia
Once considered one of the most dangerous cities in the world, Colombia's metropolis has evolved over the years into a place that attracts tourists. Local initiatives such as the dance group "Black and White" have contributed to the fact that the city has not only succeeded in fighting poverty and crime, but has also become an attractive and cool travel destination.
On the trail of Dante, Italy
The travel book publisher has distinguished the hiking route "Le vie di Dante" (Roads of Dante) as particularly sustainable: An epic hike of over 395 kilometers (245 mi) from Ravenna to Florence (photo). In 20 stages, travelers can decelerate, stay overnight in sustainable accommodation and learn more about the poet and philosopher Dante Alighieri.
Antigua and Barbuda, Caribbean
The two islands are particularly affected by the impact of climate change and have made environmental protection their top priority. Since they were devastated by Hurricane Irma in 2017, great efforts have been made to promote sustainability. Plastic and polystyrene products have been banned and environmentally friendly hotels, resorts and stores promoted.
Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
A means of transport has also been selected by Lonely Planet for the best rankings. The Canadian train Rocky Mountaineer is particularly sustainable because it has reduced CO2 emissions. In addition, the Canadian Rockies can be easily crossed by train. There is no lack of luxury either — the coaches feature panoramic windows, elevators and restaurant kitchens.
Amman, Jordan
In addition to the categories of community and sustainability, Lonely Planet has also selected destinations for their outstanding diversity. Amman in Jordan, for example, represents the famous Jordanian hospitality with its Levantine and Bedouin traditions. In addition, the capital has developed into an artistic and intellectual center in the Middle East.
Wheel the World, USA
The Californian company "Wheel the World" also earned an accolade as an example of diversity in travel, because it enables people with disabilities to explore the world without restrictions and offers barrier-free travel experiences in over 30 destinations. From climbing Machu Picchu to skydiving or a tour through the Chilean desert.