Best Island Destination: The Faroes
Posted by Vuzman on November 04 2007 01:23:52
National Geographic Traveler has rated the Faroes as the best island destination.
111 islands around the world were rated by a panel of 522 experts in sustainable tourism and destination stewardship based on how well the integrity of the islands was holding up; how unspoilt they were by tourism, the native population, etc.
One panelist: "The future could bring severe social and environmental impacts, but the Faroese are aware of the dangers and are debating solutions."
Extended News
The Faroes scored 87 out of 100, the only island to reach the category "Authentic, unspoiled, and likely to remain so", but not even close to the top category "Enhanced".
Some quoted phrases from the expert panelists' remarks suggesting the thinking behind their scores:
"Superb glaciated landscape with improbably steep slopes. Little flat land. Local society unified and resolutely Faroese, not Danish, with own language, etc. Built heritage, down to the grass roofs, reasonably protected, certainly cherished. Most tourists adventurous and well-informed."
"Cultural integrity strong. On Koltur, visitors can meet a farmer, tour the island, experience a living museum of farm life today, and sample local traditional cuisine. The farmer is part of a green certification program. If the numbers of cruise ships continue to grow rapidly, there may be problems with island carrying capacity."
"All new buildings are required to maintain historic architecture."
"Quite rightly, tourists are expected to be like the Faroese, such as taking choppy ferries and hiking through any weather. The future could bring severe social and environmental impacts, but the Faroese are aware of the dangers and are debating solutions."
