Northern Ireland's second city has been named as one of the world's best cities to visit in 2013. The Lonely Planet guidebook has placed Derry fourth on its top 10 cities list in its Best in Travel 2013 publication.
The guide said that: “Londonderry is the UK City of Culture in 2013, which means this vibrant historic walled city is undergoing a renaissance”.
Lonely Planet's Tom Hall noted that Best in Travel is all about identifying locations which offer travellers something special. “Derry is a brilliant example of a city that has bounced back from difficult times. This is a city with heart, which shines through in its exciting arts and music scene.”
Tourism Ireland CEO Niall Gibbons welcomed the news. “This accolade for Derry-Londonderry couldn't have come at a better time as the city prepares to take the international spotlight as UK City of Culture. The high profile listing in Lonely Planet provides Tourism Ireland with yet another opportunity to promote the city as a 'must-see' destination in our marketing activities across the world.”