Ghent named amongst most authentic historic destinations

Ghent’s historic city centre has been named the third most authentic historic destination in the world by National Geographic in its 2008 Destinations Rated survey. The achievement, announced in the December issue of ‘National Geographic Traveler Magazine’, places the eclectic Belgian city ahead of 106 others.

After years of living in the shadow of Antwerp and Bruges, Ghent, with its 900-plus listed buildings and winding canals, has finally acquired the recognition that it deserves and has established its tourism and cultural policy as a worldwide success.

The survey, conducted by the Society’s Centre for Sustainable Destinations, evaluates the qualities that make a destination unique by assessing its authenticity and integrity. The list of 109 cities comprises destinations that succeed in striking a durable balance between a respectful attitude to historic heritage and a lively local community putting Ghent in the top three.

A 280-strong panel evaluated places which they were familiar with, using six criteria weighted according to importance: environmental and ecological quality; social and cultural integrity; condition of historic buildings and archaeological sites; aesthetic appeal; quality of tourism management; and outlook for the future.

Dawn Page, Director of Tourism Flanders-Brussels, commented: “Ghent is one of Flanders’ most charming and diverse cities, offering its visitors an interesting range of cultural experiences as well as fabulous gastronomy and quirky shops which lie amongst perfectly preserved buildings.” She went on to say: “Ghent really is one of Flanders’ hidden gems and we are delighted that it has internationally been recognised by one of the world’s leading travel magazines.”

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