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Kangaroo Island Ranked Top Island |
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Written by SATC
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Tuesday, 30 October 2007 |
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Kangaroo Island Ranked Top Island In The Asia Pacific Region
Kangaroo Island, South Australia has been ranked best island in the Asia Pacific region in the latest US issue of National Geographic Traveler.
The survey of the world’s top island tourism destinations ranks Kangaroo Island equal fifth in the world – ahead of Fraser Island, Hawaii, the Greek islands, Tasmania and the Maldives – out of 111 islands.
A panel of 522 experts ranked the islands by comparing their commitment to sustainable tourism and preserving the environment for future generations of tourists. The results are published in the magazine’s November/December issue.
Premier Mike Rann says the news tops off a bumper month for tourism in South Australia.
“Our State is drawing more international visitors than ever before, Singapore Airlines has announced extra flights and the Tour Down Under has been elevated to the first ProTour race outside Europe.
“And now we have this fabulous honour for Kangaroo Island.
“Kangaroo Island is widely regarded overseas as “Australia’s Galapagos”, with easy access to native wildlife and spectacular forms of nature.
“This accolade demonstrates the success of sustainable tourism development on the island.
“The island’s natural attractions are now being packaged together with its world-class food and wine to create an incredible holiday experience.
“The $15 million Southern Ocean Lodge is due to open on Kangaroo Island in March 2008, further boosting the island’s international reputation.
“The State Government has been working with Southern Ocean Lodge developers, Baillie Lodges, to make sure this world-class accommodation goes ahead in the most sustainable way possible.”
The National Geographic Traveler survey results are the latest in a series of US accolades for Kangaroo Island.
Kangaroo Island was recently voted Best Australian Experience by 8,500 North American travel agents at the industry’s annual Opal Awards.
And US travel industry members voted high-end, nature-based tour company, Exceptional Kangaroo Island, as Best Australian Experience at the OzTalk travel trade convention in California recently.
Comments by experts who voted in the National Geographic Traveler survey include:
“(Kangaroo Island’s) coastal habitats are pristine, and rookeries of the little fairy penguin, seals, and sea lions are accessible. Its boardwalk across environmentally fragile high sand hills to a major sea lion population is one of the best I’ve seen, as is its regulations for interaction with the mammals, overseen by qualified guides.”
“The one-third reserve/parkland of this island is well monitored and protected by professionals who know their stuff. Private farms, where more unique flora and fauna flourish, are open to small group tours. Locals are key beneficiaries of tourism development.” |
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