(LONELY PLANET FORGET THE SALMON FISHING)

Western Australia’s South-West has today been internationally recognised as one of the world’s most desirable holiday destinations.

Tourism Minister Liz Constable said leading travel guide company Lonely Planet had chosen the South-West as one of the world’s top 10 regions to visit in 2010, in its prestigious ‘Best in Travel’ publication.

“This recognition elevates the South-West on to the world’s stage, alongside some internationally recognised destinations such as Bali, Alsace in France, the Lake District in England and Southern Africa,” Dr Constable said.

“As Tourism Minister, I’m thrilled a Western Australian destination has been chosen as it’s the only Australian region on the list and only the second time an Australian destination has featured.

“The inclusion of the South-West is testament to the region’s reputation as an exceptional destination and highlights the outstanding tourism experiences provided by its tourism operators.

“The region has the best nature can offer - hectares of tall timber forest and kilometres of pristine coastline with some of the world’s best beaches and surf breaks.

“Combine this with wineries, restaurants, breweries, day spas, family attractions and a range of accommodation from camping to luxury retreats, it’s no wonder the region has received this accolade.”
Lonely Planet’s ‘Best in Travel’ (previously known as the ‘Blue List’), is a collection of the world’s best journeys, destinations and experiences for the year ahead.

Among the book’s recommendations are walking at sunrise on the Bibbulmun Track, canoeing under the forest canopy at Nannup, swimming with the dolphins at Bunbury, sampling local produce and climbing Pemberton’s magnificent trees.

The Minister said the South-West’s inclusion on the list would provide extraordinary exposure for the region and the rest of the State.

“The Lonely Planet guide books are read by millions of travellers around the world and this provides the region with a promotional opportunity money can’t buy,” she said.

“Tourism Western Australia will increase exposure further through co-operative marketing activities with Lonely Planet.”

In stores today, ‘Best in Travel 2010’ is Lonely Planet’s fifth annual collection of the best places to go and the best things to do around the world for the year ahead.

Dr Constable said tourism was a key driver of WA’s economy, generating 80,000 jobs and injecting more than $2billion a year into regional areas.