Lonely Planet chooses Malaysia among the world’s top ten countries for 2010

16 November 2009 , By The Star

Malaysia has been chosen as one of the world's top ten countries for 2010 by Lonely Planet, one of the popular travel guidebook that recently published its fifth annual collection of the world's best journeys, destinations and experiences for the coming year. The Best in Travel 2010 presents top ten countries, regions and cities to visit in 2010, chosen by Lonely Planet's global team members comprising authors, travellers and writers. Joining Malaysia in the top ten countries list for 2010 are El Salvador, Germany, Greece, Morocco, Nepal, New Zealand, Portugal, Suriname and USA.

Lonely Planet describes Malaysia as ‘Diversity is what Malaysia is all about’. From Kuala Lumpur to the near wilds of Borneo, there are mountains, beaches, coral reefs and malls. The listing is even more meaningful as Malaysia is the only Asian country in the top ten countries for 2010. Some of the events and festivals that are highlighted in the latest guidebook are the Hindu Thaipusam, Harvest Festival in Sabah and Sarawak, Dragon Boat Festival in Penang, as well as the Rainforest World Music Festival in Sarawak. There is also a special mention about the Iskandar Malaysia project which it describes as a city being constructed from scratch in the Johor state on a plot of land three times the size of Singapore. It hopes to one day welcome approximately three million inhabitants and rival Asia's biggest metropolises.

In addition, the guide has also identified Malaysia as one of the Best Value Destinations for 2010, promoting Malaysia as a clever choice for travellers on the lookout for a bargain. It points out Malaysia's well-developed tourism industry offering a wide range of accommodation, from fine resorts to low-cost places to stay, such as the traditional wooden kampong houses on the beach or in the jungle; its low-priced flights such as AirAsia X; and its affordable food (approximately USD 7.50 for a three-course meal). The book also suggests that readers visit the tropical paradise of the Perhentian Islands.

Besides Malaysia, those in the ten best-value destinations for 2010 are Iceland, Thailand, London, South Africa, Mexico, India, Bulgaria, Kenya and Las Vegas (destinations not ranked). In addition, the Lonely Planet's top travel list includes Malaysia among the top spots for medical adventures.