In the 2010 World’s Best Awards, held annually by Travel and Leisure magazine (owned by American Express), Jerusalem was crowned the top city in Africa and the Middle East, with Tel Aviv coming in at third. The results will be published in their August issue, but can be viewed online for now here.
In a welcome boost to tourism, which is already on course for a record year, this award just reaffirms the tourist potential that the Holy Land surely has. As Tourism Commissioner Arie Sommer put it:
“We are thrilled by this result, because it underscores the growing realization by sophisticated travelers that our two main cities are unique and extraordinary places to visit.”
Jerusalem has stood on the winner’s podium before however, back in 2000. So well done to the Holy City! As for Tel Aviv, I’m not sure why it hasn’t figured in the awards before, this is its maiden entry into the list.
Expect to see thousands of tourists storming Old City shops and waving their American Express cards at frustrated shopkeepers…very soon.