For the second consecutive year, the boot-shaped nation was named best overall destination in the Readers' Travel Awards conducted by Condé Nast Traveller UK.
With an overall rating of 94.49/100, Italy was ranked first among destination countries according to readers of the prestigious magazine, which is known as a key influencer in the luxury tourism sector. The country's culture and cuisine were cited as some of its most outstanding assets. With a score of 93.89, the US came in second, followed by France in third with 92.98. Readers gave both countries particularly high ratings in the accommodations category.
The survey indicates that Oceania is home to some of the world's most outstanding scenery, as Australia and New Zealand (sixth and seventh overall, respectively) scored the highest in this category. Greece, meanwhile, in fifth place, was praised for the hospitality of the local people.
In addition to polling readers on their favorite countries for travel, the magazine asked for their picks for best cities, best hotels and best islands, among other categories.
Parrot Cay by COMO in the Turks & Caicos took top spot for 'best of the best' in terms of hotels, as well as first place in The Americas & Caribbean, while first place in The Middle East, Africa, & The Indian Ocean was nabbed by Soneva Fushi in the Maldives; New Zealand's Huka Lodge in Taupo ranked highest in Australasia & The South Pacifc; Thailand's Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai got the highest score in Asia & India; and The Bristol Paris was voted best hotel in the Europe, Turkey & Russia region.
When it came to top non-UK cities, New York came in first, followed by Paris, Rome, Barcelona and Venice.
As part of the survey, Condé Nast Traveller readers were asked to rate destinations, hotels, islands, tour operators, airports and other travel industry players based on different criteria.
The full results of the Condé Nast Traveller Readers' Travel Awards can be found in the October issue of the British magazine.
Source: Relaxnews