Sydney voted best city in magazine poll

12:00pm

Sydney has been voted the world's best city by readers of the US Travel and Leisure Magazine, outranking tourist hotspots including New York, Paris and London.

Australian Tourist Commission (ATC) managing director Ken Boundy, said a number of Australia's cities, islands and hotels had been recognised in the latest awards, highlighting the appeal of the country with American travellers.

"Sydney has reclaimed the title as the World's Best City, after two years," he said. "The city has now held this title for five of the past seven years - a superb record which illustrates the international appeal of Sydney."

The friendly Australian people were also recognised, with Perth named the World's Friendliest City closely followed by Sydney at No 2.

'Tasmania and the Great Barrier Reef were ranked among the top three islands'
"Tasmania and the Great Barrier Reef were ranked among the top three islands (ranked second and third respectively) in the world ahead of Hawaii's Maui and Kauai, as well as Santorini and Sicily," said Boundy.

"These awards are proof that the appeal of Australia as a holiday destination extends well beyond our icons.

"All aspects of our country from the city lifestyle, natural attractions and friendly people have received accolades in the latest awards."

- INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPERS (SOUTH AFRICA)