Leading global travel publisher Lonely Planet have released their hotly anticipated Best in Travel list for 2022 and rising African star Malawi has been include in the Top Ten Countries once again, making its second appearance in 8 years on this most respected of travel inspiration lists.
The destinations chosen by Lonely Planet span the world and are intended to inspire and excite travellers as they plan their trips in 2022 and beyond.
The countries were judged on their topicality, unique experiences and ‘wow’ factor, plus a particular emphasis this year on sustainability – ensuring these are destinations in which travellers can make a positive impact.
With the world still emerging from the COVID pandemic and international travel still under restrictions, the 2022 list is intended as a bucket list for the future as well as a to-visit list for right now.
Malawi is certainly full of wonderful experiences and is fast becoming one of the most complete destinations in Africa, offering its visitors a unique combination of thrilling safaris, stunning landscapes, amazing beaches and warm & friendly people. The country has always taken a considered and sustainable approach to its tourism, is fully open and can be easily visited by all nationalities straight away!
According to Lonely Planet’s VP of Experience Tom Hall the release of Lonely Planet’s 17th annual “hot list” of destinations and travel experiences could not be more timely. “After an enforced hiatus, it’s time to take those long-postponed travel plans off the shelf and make them a reality. These lists celebrate the world in all its wonderful enticing variety.” Hall said.
Malawi’s tourist industry, and all the people and environments that it supports, have suffered badly during the pandemic but this boost for the country going in to 2022 gives great hope that the trajectory of tourism growth established pre-COVID will be quickly recovered next year as more and more international visitors appreciate its attractions and delights.
Of the 10 countries, Malawi is among three African countries which include Mauritius, ranked number three and Egypt, ranked number 10.
In an interview with Times, Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Culture Michael Usi said the country would deploy necessary efforts to leverage on the ranking.
“We are now a global tourism market; a must-visit place. What it means is that the whole world is looking at Malawi and we are in competition. We must market ourselves aggressively,” Usi said.
He said, in collaboration with all players in the sector, the government was devising ways of raising standards within the sector to have a competitive edge.
While saying that Malawi, already has policies in place to propel growth of the sector, Usi conceded that more needed to be done in implementing the plans.
