Lonely Planet names Chile the Best Country to Visit in 2018

Chile continues to gain recognition as travel experts’ top choice destination. This time it was Lonely Planet, one of the most renowned travel guides in the world with over 145 publications, which placed Chile at the top of its “Best in Travel 2018” collection.

The travel guide, which offers content in more than 14 languages and has over 13 million followers on social media, published its anticipated collection of the top 10 travel destinations in 2018. This list names the countries that should be on every traveler’s to-do list, and this year, Chile has earned first place on that list.

This victory is twice as sweet, since Chile is the only South American country to earn a spot on the list and ranks higher than the other iconic tourist destinations selected, including South Korea, Portugal, Djibouti, New Zealand, Malta, Georgia, Mauricio, China and South Africa.

“This distinction is big news for Chile and reaffirms the government’s successful campaign to market the country as must-see international tourism destination. And the statistics confirm this as well, with a record-breaking influx of 5.5 million foreign tourists in 2016,” said Undersecretary of Tourism, Javiera Montes.

Sernatur Director Marcela Cabezas also asserted that, “recognition by Lonely Planet is an award that all Chileans can feel proud of, as it highlights both the natural beauty of our country and the outstanding hospitality of its people. This acknowledgement comes on the heels of our recent distinction as South America’s Leading Adventure Tourism Destination 2017 by the World Tourism Association.”

POPULAR VOTE

The annual selection of the “Lonely Planet Best in Travel” -already in its 13^th edition- involves the guide’s most experienced travelers and takes into consideration hundreds of recommended destinations. Its selection criteria, including current events, innovative travel offers and the surprise factor, help to decide which places will be included in the inspirational annual list.

For more information, go to lonelyplanet.com and https://www.lonelyplanet.com/best-in-travel