The top 50 destinations of all time

The really great destinations can be visited time and time again. On each visit they reveal an aspect of their character you haven't seen or experienced before. You always leave reluctantly and with a strong desire to return." - Richard I'Anson, travel photographer, Lonely Planet.

THE METHOD-We went to the people in the travel industry for a variety of reasons. Without exception, all have travelled extensively, both at home and abroad. They've spent time in the best-known cities, seen the famous sites, travelled well-beaten paths and searched for hidden gems, in some instances many times.

But more than that, our respondents, without exception, work in travel because they love it. THE LIST The 50 greatest destinations list is broken down into five categories - favourite country, region, city, journey and icon - be it natural or man-made.

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