Isles of Scilly Helicopters Blog

Renowned international travel guide Frommer’s – has named the Isles of Scilly as one of ‘the’ top 10 destinations in the World to visit in 2010.

The only UK destination to make the list, the Island archipelago, which lies 28 miles off the tip of Lands End, the Isles of Scilly was named in the top 10 along with other destinations such as Hanoi, Copenhagen, Hawaii and Abu Dhabi, it is the first time that the Islands have made the prestigious list.

Compiled from feedback from travel industry insiders, travel writers and for the first time, from Frommer’s readers in the publication’s first Reader Favourite, Frommer’s annual Top 10 places to visit is eagerly awaited by the international travel industry.

Tourism leaders on the Islands, who have just overseen the launch of the brand new Isles of Scilly 2010 brochure – Simply Scilly – say they are delighted at having received the Frommer’s international accolade.

“Getting into Frommer’s Top 10 destinations list, which is much anticipated by travel lovers around the world, is a major coup for us. When you look at the other locations we are rubbing shoulders with, and consider we are the only UK destination to make the list, it is the perfect way to kick start the 2010 season.

“We have just launched the new 2010 brochure, have enjoy unprecedented television coverage this year, most recently with a major profile on BBC Countryfile in addition to being featured on BBC Top Gear all of which has resulted in extremely positive enquiry levels for next year already, so to have this accolade on top of that, is fantastic,” said Isles of Scilly Tourism Officer Kate Sleep.

Launching the 2010 list, Frommer’s commented: “As in years past, they (the destinations listed) represent a mix of emerging spots, under-appreciated cities, and places we think you need to experience before they’re overrun by tourist crowds. While authors and editors again contributed their suggestions, this year we reached out for some additional advice. During October and November readers from around the world nominated their favorites and then voted for this year’s inaugural Reader Favorite. The one element that connects all of these? We can’t wait to go.”

Frommer’s wrote of the Isles of Scilly – The islands are a collection of secluded sandy beaches, Bronze Age burial chambers, and rocky promontories, and a smattering of beautifully located cafés ensure plenty of diversions — such as kayaking, sailing, and windsurfing — en route. There are five inhabited islands: St. Mary’s, Tresco, St. Martin’s, St. Agnes, and Bryher, along with more than 150 uninhabited ones that lay scattered across the shallow turquoise seas. Fringed with beaches of soft, pale sand, the archipelago has the exotic appeal of some faraway holiday paradise, an impression enhanced by the balmy, frost-free climate and colorful subtropical plants.

“At a time when destinations around the World are working harder than ever to attract visitors, making the Frommer’s Top 10 list is something we are extremely proud of,” added Kate.