Wanderlust Travel Awards 2009 - Top Country

1    Japan    97.42%

2    Namibia    96.21%

3    New Zealand    95.75%

4    Bhutan    95.71%

5    Syria    95.38%

6    Peru    95.36%

7    Ecuador    95.11%

8    Vietnam    95%

9    Indonesia    94.12%

10     Laos    94.05%

After years of neck-and-neck jostling between New Zealand and Namibia, this year’s winner has shot into the top ten like a bullet (train). And perhaps that’s appropriate, because it’s Japan’s unique combination of wild unpredictability and smooth efficiency that has made it your top country this year.

You were mesmerised by its man-made attractions: Tokyo’s ‘fluorescent skyscapes’, its indoor rollercoasters, hi-tech loos and hotels boasting ‘unbelievable levels of service and comfort’.

But you were also moved by the country’s ancient culture and underlying serenity – the peak of Mount Fuji viewed from a snow-chilled pool; the tranquil temples and gardens of Kyoto; the cherry blossom and family-run ryokans.

Even the country’s wildlife bowled you over: reader Louise Markus marvelled at the ‘endlessly fascinating’ snow monkeys of the Japanese Alps, and the ‘amazing sight of flocks of overwintering cranes doing their mating dance’.

The Michelin guides rate Tokyo the best foodie city in the world, and you whole-heartedly (and full-belliedly) agreed. ‘The food comes in so many varieties it is easy to please anyone,’ drooled Gill Coles. ‘There are restaurants where you barbecue meat and vegetables, simple dumpling bars, or dining in a ryokan, seated on tatami mats, while numerous succulent dishes are served.’

Emily White summed it all up: ‘If you want to experience a true assault on all your senses, then Japan is the place for you.’

And the rest…

Demonstrating your disregard for the ‘Axis of Evil’, you gave a huge thumbs-up this year to Syria, an oft-maligned nation that boasts epic deserts, castles and ruins, fascinating Bedouin culture, plus two of the Middle East’s most atmospheric cities: Damascus and Aleppo. Incidentally, Syria’s political ally Iran came 11th.

Two great-value South-East Asian countries – Indonesia and Vietnam – also entered the top ten, while there was overwhelming support for Antarctica and the Galápagos (which aren’t countries) and Mongolia (which might have won if it had just one more vote!).

And at the bottom of the pile? Poor, unloved Algeria, given a mere 20% approval by its visitors. How would its most famous son, Albert Camus, philosophise that?

>>See the rest of the award winners here