A popular South-East Queensland tourist destination has been acknowledged as one of the world’s top 10 most welcoming towns.
Noosa Heads was the only Australian location to make the list in Booking.com’s annual Traveller Review Awards, which includes analysis of millions of reviews.
Noosa Mayor Frank Wilkie said it was a hospitable region.
“Many of us moved here after visiting and feeling at home in Noosa, thanks to the shire’s beautiful natural assets and welcoming community,” he said.
“This international recognition as a welcoming place indicates a healthy and inclusive community and reflects the principles in Noosa’s new Destination Management Plan (DMP).
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“The plan positions Noosa as a place where tourism respects our environment and ensures everyone, residents and visitors alike, feels connected, valued and welcome.
“To be acknowledged internationally for the warmth and authenticity of our community shows we’re on the right path.”
Cr Wilkie said the DMP emphasises connection, care for country and community pride, which he said were values that underpin behaviours highlighted in the Traveller Review Awards.
“The aim is to ensure Noosa remains beautiful and welcoming not just today, but for generations to come. That means visitors feeling part of the community and understanding the role they play in caring for this special place,” he said.
“It’s about treading lightly and caring for our place, which can be as simple as disposing of waste responsibly, avoiding single-use plastics and supporting local businesses.”
Cr Wilkie said residents and visitors will see more opportunities to connect with Noosa’s care-for-place ethos as the For the Love of Noosa program expands in future.
“In coming years we’ll introduce more innovative ways and experiences for both locals and visitors to give back, get involved and help keep Noosa vibrant, protected and welcoming,” he said.
“This recognition reinforces that Noosa’s greatest strength is its people – and the pride we all take in caring for this remarkable place.”
Other cities on the list included Italy’s Montepulciano, Taiwan’s Magong, Argentina’s San Martín de los Andes, Harrogate in the United Kingdom, Texas’ Fredericksburg in the United States, Pirenópolis in Brazil, Swakopmund in Namibia, Japan’s Takayama and Klaipeda in Lithuania.
