Full Breakdown
Lonely Planet Unveils 2027 “Best in Travel” List
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Release of the 2027 Best in Travel List
Lonely Planet announced its 2027 “Best in Travel” selections, featuring 25 places and 25 experiences for a total of 50 destinations worldwide. The announcement came in September 2026, ahead of the holiday-booking season, to guide travelers toward iconic sites and lesser-known gems.
Highlights of Featured Destinations
- Redwood National and State Parks (California, USA) – Noted for towering redwoods and fog-kissed beaches. Editor Becca Hunt says families often drive six hours north to see “the tallest trees on earth.”
- Šibenik (Croatia) – A lively Adriatic city with two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Cathedral of St. James and St. Nicholas’ Fortress.
- Astana (Kazakhstan) – A modern capital of more than 1.3 million residents, blending Asian, Western, Soviet and futuristic architecture.
- Valle de Guadalupe (Mexico) – Home to over 100 wineries, recommended for “win-and-dine” experiences before the region becomes mainstream.
- Prince Edward Island (Canada) – Known for red-sandstone cliffs, cedar-shingled villages and extensive dune systems.
- Additional picks include Sweden’s Skanör-Falsterbo (the “Swedish Riviera”), Montserrat, Fulidhoo in the Maldives, and New Caledonia.
Data & Statistics
- 25 places + 25 experiences = 50 selections for 2027.
- Šibenik is the only Croatian city with two UNESCO sites, per Liverpoolecho.
- Astana’s population exceeds 1.3 million, according to Qazinform.
- Valle de Guadalupe hosts more than 100 wineries, per the New York Post.
Official Statements & Responses
Lonely Planet’s editorial team says the list reflects on-the-ground reporting and a desire to broaden travelers’ notions of “beach” and “island” escapes.
Becca Hunt adds that the Redwood parks offer a timeless experience, recommending off-season visits between October and May to avoid summer crowds.
Why It Matters / Impact
The list arrives at a pivotal moment for the travel industry, shaping itineraries for the 2027 booking cycle. By spotlighting remote or off-the-beaten-path locations—such as the candlelight walk in Redwood parks or the quieter Swedish Riviera—Lonely Planet encourages dispersal of tourist traffic away from overtouristed hotspots. Emphasis on cultural heritage (e.g., Šibenik’s UNESCO sites) and sustainable experiences (e.g., community-based stays in Fulidhoo) aligns with growing consumer interest in responsible travel.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Living in Northern California means there are redwood trees at the playground and in your friends’ backyards, but my family and I still drive the 6 hours north to marvel at the real giants, the tallest trees on earth in Redwood National and State Parks,” — Becca Hunt, Lonely Planet editor
- “It’s one of our favorite moments of the year because it’s our writers and editors around the world saying: I’ve been here, I’ve done this, it was amazing, and this is what I think travelers need to know about next,” — Nitya Chambers, senior vice president of content and executive editor
- “What I love about this list is how much it expands the idea of a beach or island escape. Yes, there are places that deliver the extraordinary beauty travelers dream about, but there are also destinations that surprise you, including volcanic coastlines, subtropical islands, cold-water landscapes and places you may never have thought of as a beach destination at all,” — Nitya Chambers, senior vice president of content and executive editor
These statements capture the editorial enthusiasm, the strategic intent behind the list, and broader tourism endorsement.