National Geographic rates P.E.I. one of world's top coastal destinations

National Geographic's Traveler magazine has rated P.E.I. number 17 in its annual list of the top 99 coastal destinations in the world.

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A panel of 340 experts in sustainable tourism and destination stewardship rated what the magazine calls a "geographically and culturally representative sample of the world's waterside locales."

The Avalon Peninsula in Newfoundland garnered the top score from panelists for its "classic outport villages," high aesthetic appeal, and unspoiled scenery.

The culture is changing as traditional Islanders move away. National Geographic panelist

Panelists also heaped praise on P.E.I. at number 17 after coastal areas of Italy and Jamaica.

"Pint-sized P.E.I. offers 'spectacular seascapes' defined by iron-red sand dunes that guard meticulously manicured potato fields. A recently completed bridge to the mainland has brought more visitors, but the island has managed to hang on to its charm.' the article reads.

"Coastal erosion and agricultural runoff pose problems," the magazine also noted.

P.E.I. is, of course, 'quaint'

"Beautiful and natural in places, populated by quaint vacation homes and artist retreats in others," one anonymous panelist wrote, adding "erosion is the main issue, with some beaches receding by a meter per year. Tourism emphasizes cultural and literary heritage, the beaches, and foodall some of the best in Canada."

The Island's friendly populace, as well as the appeal of the national park, Anne of Green Gables, rolling hills and potato and mussel farms are also discussed, along with some of its challenges.

"P.E.I. is undergoing some change as a result of becoming attached to the mainland of Canada by the bridge," another unnamed panelist wrote. "The culture is changing as traditional Islanders move away."

"Only drawback is in-season crowding," notes another.

The magazine rates coastal destinations annually because they are so popular with tourists.

"I suspect some atavistic instinct lies embedded in our brains: Seek the ocean!" writes National Geographic Traveler magazine's Geotourism editor Jonathan B. Tourtellot.