For all of its downfalls on the tourism front — the high cost, ongoing labor disputes and hotel strikes, San Francisco has still managed to squeak by as the No 1. travel destination in the nation, according to Condé Nast Traveler magazine, which is considered one of the world’s top travel and destination guides.
This is the 18th consecutive year that San Francisco has been selected the top travel city by the magazine, which bases its selection on a survey of more than 25,000 readers.
San Francisco was followed by Charleston, S.C., and Santa Fe, N.M.
Each city was judged in more than 40 categories according to specific criteria such as ambiance, friendliness, culture, restaurants, lodging and shopping.
“San Francisco continues to be recognized for its scenic beauty, diverse neighborhoods, restaurants and cultural attractions by travelers worldwide,” said San Francisco Convention and Visitor Bureau President and CEO Joe D’Alessandro.
San Francisco’s selection as the top travel destination, follows last week’s announcement by the San Francisco International Airport that passengers traveling through the airport have increased by 4 percent during the summer months compared to summer with 2009.
