“Sri Lanka is decidedly having its moment in the equatorial sun and change is coming swiftly,” said Lonely Planet. “After decades of civil conflict, this is a country revived.” With its unspoiled beaches, rich history, tea towns, national parks, the sacred Temple of the Tooth, the famed scenic train from Kandy to Ella and the food – oh, the food! – Sri Lanka is getting a whole lot of love from everyone from families to the budget traveller and wellness junkies.
“Even the north and east, including areas previously off limits, difficult to reach or lacking in services, deliver new discoveries,” the travel giant said.
Germany came in second on the list while Belize took out the 10th and last spot on the must-do countries list for next year.
Australia didn’t make the cut but The Red Centre came in at number four in the Top Regions Category. “At the spiritual heart of Australia’s Red centre is the country’s most recognised natural wonder, Uluru,” said the Lonely Planet.
“In 2019 this scared site is finally closing the climbers, almost 150 years after explorers decided to ‘conquer the rock’. Instead, visitors will find this World Heritage site – recognised for its outstanding natural and cultural values – conquers them.”