Lonely Planet Names Adelaide in Top 10 Cities for 2014

Adelaide

Adelaide has been named as one of the world's top 10 cities to visit by leading guidebook publisher and a global travel authority Lonely Planet.

Adelaide, the only Australian city to be listed, was named alongside Zurich, Paris, Shanghai and Vancouver in Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2014 publication.

Coming in at number nine, Adelaide is described as "effortlessly chic - and like a perfectly cellared red, it's ready to be uncorked and sampled".

Premier Jay Weatherill said Lonely Planet's announcement was a well-deserved coup for South Australia and it recognised Adelaide's recent transformation.

"South Australians have known for some time that something big is happening in Adelaide," Mr Weatherill said.

"For this to be recognised by the world's leading guidebook brand, which is read by thousands of travellers a year, is a huge win."

To help celebrate this global award, the State Government is inviting people to a street party in Leigh Street from 11am - 2pm today where they can have a free coffee from Coffee Branch and enjoy the festive atmosphere. The official announcement will be at 12:30pm.

Tourism Minister Leon Bignell said the State Government would today release a video clip that highlights the city's recent transformation.

"There's a new energy and culture about Adelaide and all the developments going on are helping transform the city landscape," Mr Bignell said.

Lauded as the 'perfect host city,' the Lonely Planet entry recognises Adelaide's festivals including the Santos Tour Down Under, WOMADelaide, the Adelaide Festival and the Adelaide Fringe Festival.

It also highlights the refurbishment of Adelaide Oval and the diversity of the city's eating precincts including the revitalised Leigh Street, Gouger Street and Rundle Street.

Embracing our city's quirkiness, Lonely Planet, which turns 40 this year, features Adelaide's parklets as a recent fad, encouraging café patrons and travellers to take time out and enjoy the atmosphere of a small city with a robust heartbeat.

Lonely Planet Publications Asia Pacific Sales and Marketing Director Chris Zeiher said the short film will provide a fresh look at Adelaide that will challenge people's perspective of the city.

"The short film offers local and international travellers the chance to see and understand what this incredible city has to offer," Mr Zeiher said.

"Adelaide has certainly shed its conservative robe in recent times and transformed itself into an energetic and vibrant hub of new and exciting experiences.

"The Lonely Planet's Top 10 Cities is all about setting the travel agenda for the year to come and I'm sure that Adelaide has plenty more surprises up its sleeve for us in 2014. Don't believe us? We dare you to come and find out for yourself," he said.


The clip can be viewed at www.youtube.com/southaustralia