National Geographic Traveler magazine has revealed its Best of the World list of 21 must-see destinations, and there are some pretty happy meeting cities that made the cut. Smart Meetings must be keeping great company because many of our good friends find themselves among the elite destinations of the world.

We’d like to send out special congratulations to the following: Hawaiian Island of Kauai; the state of Georgia; Anchorage, Alaska; Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada; Cartagena, Colombia; Hamburg, Germany; and Madrid, Spain.

“We think this year’s Best of the World list represents a carefully curated selection of forward-leaning places that reveal the bright future of travel,” says George Stone, National Geographic Traveler editor. “This list is all about exploration and discovery. It’s not just about where to go, but why to go now and how to make 2017 a year of enlightenment through travel.”

Chosen by the National Geographic Traveler editors, the world’s best destinations will be published in the December 2016/January 2017 issue of the magazine.

“It’s a great honor for Kauai to be recognized by National Geographic Traveler and such an esteemed group of travel professionals,” says Sue Kanoho, executive director of the Kauai Visitors Bureau. “With Kauai’s tropical weather year-round, scenic wonders including the Kalalau Lookout, Waimea Canyon and the Napali Coast, diverse range of hiking trails, and rich, cultural history, the Garden Isle is an ideal destination for all explorers. Kauai allows travelers to rejuvenate their spirit, reconnect with family and friends and discover Kauai’s natural beauty.”

Georgia is featured in the Best of the World list for its live music and music heritage. Georgia Tourism was already celebrating 2016 as “Year of Georgia Music” and now they have something else to toast. The state has focused much of its marketing on its rich music heritage, world-class venues and unique festivals. Georgia is home to more than a thousand live music venues, seating anywhere from 100 to 20,000 people per performance.

“It is an honor that National Geographic Traveler has selected Georgia as one of 21 of the world’s best destinations,” says Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal. “From our mountains to our coasts, Georgia is home to talented musicians, world-class artists and others who help make our state a top tourist destination and a wonderful place to call home. We are proud that Georgia is on the mind of so many, both here and around the world.”

National Geographic Traveler liked Banff National Park so much it put a picture of iconic Moraine Lake on the cover of its Best of the World issue. The Rocky Mountain park is the only Canadian destination included on the list.

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