What the New York Times really likes about Tasmania

Wild places, indigenous culture and a restaurant that has not yet opened are among the the highlights of Tasmania that have caught the attention of the New York Times. 

The Australian island state was named No.29 of the newspaper's 52 best places to visit list for 2024, published this week. 

Here is what the paper had to say: 

"Venture outside and help protect vulnerable species in Tasmania, Australia’s southernmost state, with several new guided walks. Tasmanian Walking Company, in partnership with the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, offers a three-day trek across rugged Bruny Island (above) to map flora and collect seeds for the garden’s seed bank.

"To get a taste of the island’s Indigenous culture, join members of the local Palawa community on multiday treks through the powder white sands of Wukalina (Mount William National Park) and orange-lichen-covered rocks of Larapuna (Bay of Fires). 

"Or to get an actual taste of the island, forage for ingredients like wattle seeds and pepperberries with guides from Palawa Kipli, a company that is Indigenous-owned and operated - the experience ends with a tasting menu that includes smoked payathanima (wallaby).

"Locavore menus are the norm throughout Tasmania, and the chef Analiese Gregory, a wild-cooking expert, will be showcasing ingredients like hand-gathered abalone and sea urchin at her yet-to-be-named restaurant set to open early this year."

Tasmania was one of only two Australian locations to make the annual list, alongside Brisbane and other global destinations.

Acting Premier Michael Ferguson said to be recognised by the New York Times as one of the best places to visit in the world was a huge achievement for Tasmania.

“Not only is the New York Times one of the most influential publications in the world, but it also has a massive global following far beyond the US readership,” Ferguson said.

“This list will be an essential, trusted source of travel inspiration for many global travellers, and we have no doubt it will influence readers to come and visit Tasmania.

“We know Tasmania has what the world wants, with our world-class produce and beverages, our beautiful regions, festivals, world heritage sites, events and rugged walks offering something for everyone.

“Tasmania welcomed 1.26 million visitors in the year ending September 2023, up 31% from the same period last year, and we want to continue to sustainably grow the industry."