Queenstown has been named the second most popular world destination, closely following Milford Sound in first place, by TripAdvisor®, the world's largest travel community.
The inaugural TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Destinations Awards recognise inspirational travel spots and honour the most beloved destinations from around the world.
Destination Queenstown CEO, David Kennedy, said the award for Queenstown was testament to the quality of the town's operators and the exceptional travel experience they delivered.
"This is phenomenal recognition for Queenstown and the people who run businesses here, showcasing our southern hospitality and delivering an inspirational experience.
Queenstowners should feel very proud of their contribution to this fantastic international achievement," said Mr Kennedy.
"We know TripAdvisor users to be discerning and impartial, which gives this award and our alpine resort's recognition added credibility."
He also acknowledged and congratulated neighbouring Fiordland for the recognition of Milford Sound as the world's most popular destination.
"Fiordland and Queenstown are neighbouring regions which work together in tourism facilitation through our Southern Lakes marketing alliance."
TripAdvisor's 2008 Destinations Awards represent the opinions of millions of travelers. The winners were determined by a combination of TripAdvisor's travelers' favourite places and overall popularity on the online travel community's website.
"Determined by millions of travelers, the Travelers' Choice Destinations Awards are unique because they single out not just popular places but truly exceptional places that enthrall travelers and keep them coming back," said Michele Perry, Vice President of Global Communications for TripAdvisor.
Queenstown trumped other leading international alpine resorts with Banff placing ninth and Lake Tahoe coming in at number ten in the Top 100 Worldwide Destinations.
The top 10 locations worldwide also included Philipsburg, St. Maarten (3), Cayo Largo, Cuba (4), Rhodes, Greece (5), Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas (6), Cruz Bay, St. John (7), and Bridgetown, Barbados (8).
