AUSTRALIA’S LORD HOWE ISLAND Top 10 Destination for 2020

Global travel authority Lonely Planet has chosen Lord Howe Island as one of the world's Top 10 Regions for this year in Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2020. Best in Travel 2020 is Lonely Planet’s 15th annual collection of the world’s hottest destinations and journeys for the year ahead. The best-selling, inspirational travel yearbook highlights the top 10 countries, cities, regions, and best-value destinations that Lonely Planet's experts recommend for 2020. This edition places particular emphasis on sustainable travel experiences— ensuring travellers will have a positive impact wherever they choose to go.

Lord Howe Island is ranked fifth on the book's list of Top 10 Regions 2020. "Parked in the middle of nowhere 600km off the Australian coast, this visually stunning island makes an instant impact on the senses with its jaw-dropping World Heritage-listed beauty," writes Lonely Planet. "Two soaring green mountains overlook a perfect lagoon and the world’s southernmost coral reef; perfect crescents of beach and splendid hiking trails through the lush forest add to brilliant outdoors possibilities."

"This onetime volcano’s isolation makes it a refuge for many endemic species, as well as plentiful birdlife," Lonely Planet says. "The island is a shining example of sustainably managed tourism; only 400 visitors are allowed at any time, and you are encouraged to participate in a series of ecological projects. Lord Howe’s remoteness and manageable size make it an idyllic escape."