11/13/2009

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Lonely Planet has announced its newest "Best in Travel" lists, ranking the San Juan Islands on its list of "World's Top 10 Cycling Routes."   These results are featured in the book Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2010, available in book stores now.

In addition to the San Juan Islands of Washington State, the list includes: Otago Peninsula, New Zealand; Cape Breton Island, Canada; Friuli-Venezia, Italy; Isle of Wight, England; West Coast Tasmania, Australia; Luberon and Mont Ventoux, France; County Clare, Ireland; La Farola, Cuba and National Highway 1, Vietnam.

 About the San Juan Islands, the book states "The ferry....weaves it way calmly, the perfect introduction to the slow, peaceful character of these islands.  Awaiting you are forested shorelines, secluded coves, bucolic vistas and quiet roads.  The three largest islands, Lopez, Orcas and San Juan, each have their own distinctive charm, with historic sites and art galleries."  This route is also Washington State's newest Scenic Byway, following the ferry route and the rural roads on Orcas and San Juan Islands. 

According to Lonely Planet, the new book describes "the best places to go and things to do all around the world right now.  Drawing on the knowledge, passion and miles traveled by Lonely Planet's staff and authors, you've got a year's worth of travel inspiration to take you out of the ordinary and into some unforgettable experiences."  Of additional note is that nearby Vancouver, Canada is on the list of top cities and is the home to the upcoming 2010 Winter Olympics.

Lonely Planet is the world's leading global travel information company, publishing around 500 titles, including guidebooks, reference books and inspirational pictorials.  It is renowned for its first-hand approach and commitment to responsible travel, donating to environmental programs and human rights organizations. 

To see what the San Juan Islands offer for all outdoor adventure and to get helpful travel tips and good deals on lodging and activities from the San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau, go online at http://www.visitsanjuans.com/.

The San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau is a non-profit, economic development agency contracted for responsible tourism management and competitive marketing of the San Juan Islands as a year-round travel destination. Visitor spending directly benefits county parks, historical museums, community theaters, and local businesses.

Release date: 11/13/09