New Orleans named ‘most desirable city’ outside of Europe
New Orleans gains more international recognition for its “distinctive vibrancy,” according to a report.
Wanderlust magazine named New Orleans the “Most Desirable City” outside of Europe at their 2022 Wanderlust Travel Awards held in London on Tuesday, Nov. 8. The Louisiana Office of Tourism announced the big win Wednesday.
Each year, the Wanderlust Travel Awards rate top destinations in Europe and around the world based on the votes of their readers. In 2022, approximately 50,000 people voted in the awards.
“It’s very exciting for New Orleans to receive this kind of recognition,” Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser said in a release. “In 2021, Wanderlust recognized New Orleans as a top ten long haul destination. It is clear that the world is thinking more and more of New Orleans and Louisiana as a destination for their bucket lists. We can’t wait to welcome all these visitors and show them all the ways you can Feed Your Soul in Louisiana.”
Wanderlust awards “Most Desirable City” in two categories: cities in Europe and in the rest of the world.
Wanderlust’s official award states, “Louisiana’s largest city has a distinctive vibrancy, which is why it has deservedly won this year’s Wanderlust award for Most Desirable City (Rest of World). Music is its beating heart, with jazz, blues, reggae and rock filling the streets of the Marigny neighbourhood.”
Wanderlust held their awards show at the Tower of London where Louisiana was the featured Culinary and Cocktail Sponsor of the event. Passed bowls featured dishes inspired by Louisiana classics such as chicken and andouille gumbo and shrimp remoulade. Featured cocktails included the French 75, Sazerac, and Bayou Rum.
“The United Kingdom is our top European market for visitors and we’ve been working hard at promoting Louisiana there over the past year. It’s wonderful to see that effort pay off,” assistant secretary Doug Bourgeois said in a release. “With the British Airways direct flight to New Orleans, these visitors can easily make the trip to New Orleans. We invite them, once they’ve explored the city, to hit the road and see even more of Louisiana.”
Launched in 1993, Wanderlust is the leading magazine for adventurous and authentic travel. The complete list of 2022 award recipients is available on the Wanderlust Awards results webpage.