Vanuatu scores top winter destination in Lonely Planet survey

By Opodo Travel News, 31st December 2009: Tropical hotspots are a popular option for winter breaks, according to a recent Lonely Planet survey. The publishing firm questioned its staff and authors around the world on their ideal destinations for winter holidays, with Hawaii emerging as the top choice for respondents in the US. In the Australian office, the South Pacific island of Vanuatu was found to be the most popular option. However, the poll also highlighted a fondness for European cities such as Prague during the cold season. On the appeal of the Czech capital, Lonely Planet staff member Ali Lemer said: 'Walking down the old cobbled laneways with a new scarf and a hot chocolate in hand is a wonderfully European way to spend the winter.'

Other destinations that respondents recommended for winter holidays include Tahoe in the US and Oaxaca in Mexico, which hosts an annual event where local people carve giant radishes into religious scenes.

People looking for some holiday inspiration can use Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2010 guide, which highlights a number of destinations and experiences on offer next year.