Celebrating Beauty: South Africa Among the Top 10 Most Beautiful Countries Worldwide

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south africa beauty

South Africa has been named one of the top 10 most beautiful countries in the world by Rough Guides, thanks to its unique diversity and mix of landscapes, cultural panorama, world-class wines, affable locals, and delectable cuisine. The recognition is a reminder of the abundant beauty that exists in every corner of the world and should inspire us to explore, appreciate, and safeguard the breathtaking diversity of our planet. South Africa, with its dynamic complexity and stunning natural wonders, stands as a shining example of this universal appeal.

Celebrating Beauty: South Africa Among the Top 10 Most Beautiful Countries Worldwide

South Africa’s Unique Charm

South Africa secured its place in Rough Guides’ annual list of the world’s most beautiful countries by showcasing its exceptional diversity. Captivating mix of landscapes, rich cultural panorama, world-class wines, affable locals, and delectable cuisine are what voters found most appealing about this African nation.

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Embracing Beauty in Its Many Forms

In a yearly celebration of the planet’s spectacular visual wonders, the esteemed travel planning company, Rough Guides, has unveiled its annual list of the world’s most beautiful countries. The big news this year: South Africa has secured a place in the top ten, coming in at number ten on the list. This notable recognition highlights the diverse allure of South Africa, setting it apart from other countries around the globe.

Rough Guides’ annual ranking benefits from global attention. It’s an event that encourages international audiences to come together and acknowledge the many forms of beauty that the world offers. The evaluation criteria are comprehensive, taking into account a variety of factors including landscapes, cultural traditions, architectural magnificence, culinary delights, and the character of the natives.

At the top of the list this year is New Zealand, noted for its amazing combination of mountains and beaches, its lively culture, and the friendliness of its people. This attractive country managed to overthrow last year’s champion, Italy, which now holds the second rank, as per Business Tech. Other countries following closely are well-known for their distinct allure: Canada, Switzerland, France, the United Kingdom, Norway, Australia, Greece, and South Africa.

South Africa’s Unique Charm

The element that secured South Africa’s place in this esteemed ranking is its exceptional diversity. The captivating mix of landscapes, the rich cultural panorama, world-class wines, affable locals, and delectable cuisine are what voters found most appealing about this African nation. Interestingly, despite receiving numerous nominations, Namibia didn’t make the cut, leaving South Africa as the only African country to secure a spot in the top 20.

Different.org, an online crowdfunding philanthropy platform that supports various projects in South Africa, has highlighted the undeniable enchantment of South Africa. The allure of this country is not only in its physical features but also in its soul, historical background, and people.

Rounding out the top 20 on Rough Guides’ list are the United States of America, Chile, Iceland, Argentina, Croatia, India, Indonesia, Portugal, Slovenia, and Japan. Each of these countries adds its own unique charm to the global canvas of beauty and diversity.

Global Acclaim for South Africa

South Africa’s commendations didn’t stop with Rough Guides. In the 2023 Telegraph Travel Awards, South Africa won the title of ‘Favourite Country in the World’ as voted by The Telegraph newspaper’s readership of approximately 30,000 people.

Cape Town was singled out for its fascinating beauty with the legendary Table Mountain receiving special attention. Additionally, the stunning landscapes of the Garden Route, the towering peaks of the Drakensberg range, the lush vineyards of Stellenbosch, and the renowned Kruger National Park were praised as the country’s top destinations.

The recent accolades for South Africa underscore the multifaceted nature of beauty. The most captivating places blend natural magnificence with cultural richness. It is hoped that this recognition will foster increased appreciation and conservation efforts for these extraordinary locations, not just in South Africa, but in all countries celebrated for their unique charm.

South Africa’s Diverse Appeal

However, the true charm of South Africa lies not in its awards, but in the country itself. From the majestic Table Mountain to the welcoming vineyards of Stellenbosch, from the bustling streets of Cape Town to the inspiring wildlife of Kruger National Park, South Africa invites with a beauty that’s as varied as it is unforgettable. Whether you’re attracted by the landscapes, the culture, the food, or the people, there’s always something new to explore and appreciate in this incredible nation.

Finally, these rankings serve as a reminder of the abundant beauty that exists in every corner of the world. They should inspire us to explore, appreciate, and safeguard the breathtaking diversity of our planet. South Africa, with its dynamic complexity and stunning natural wonders, stands as a shining example of this universal appeal.

1. What recognition has South Africa received from Rough Guides?

South Africa has been named one of the top 10 most beautiful countries in the world by Rough Guides due to its unique diversity and mix of landscapes, cultural panorama, world-class wines, affable locals, and delectable cuisine.

2. How does Rough Guides evaluate countries for their ranking?

Rough Guides’ evaluation criteria are comprehensive, taking into account a variety of factors including landscapes, cultural traditions, architectural magnificence, culinary delights, and the character of the natives.

3. What other countries are in the top 10 most beautiful countries list by Rough Guides?

The other countries following closely after South Africa are New Zealand, Italy, Canada, Switzerland, France, the United Kingdom, Norway, Australia, and Greece.

4. What recognition did South Africa receive in the 2023 Telegraph Travel Awards?

South Africa won the title of ‘Favourite Country in the World’ as voted by The Telegraph newspaper’s readership of approximately 30,000 people.

5. What are some of the top destinations in South Africa?

Cape Town, the Garden Route, the Drakensberg range, Stellenbosch, and Kruger National Park are praised as the country’s top destinations.

6. What is the true charm of South Africa?

The true charm of South Africa lies not in its awards but in the country itself. From the majestic Table Mountain to the welcoming vineyards of Stellenbosch, from the bustling streets of Cape Town to the inspiring wildlife of Kruger National Park, South Africa invites with a beauty that’s as varied as it is unforgettable.

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