It’s time for the 2nd Annual Winners and Losers in Travel & Tourism Round-up (here’s the 2010 list).

Australia – Draw

Australia hit it big when Oprah took 302 lucky viewers Down Under and televised every moment across the U.S. (though I planned my Aussie trip way before she did). After traversing The Outback, Sydney and all points in between, it would seem as though every American would be ready to hop on a plane and make the 16-hour trip to Oz. But that wasn’t necessarily the case according to this article in theage. Flooding, the expense and the distance to get there were all too powerful barriers to prevent people from traveling there.

But the natural beauty, adventure-filled activities and warmth of the people made Australia a shining star in the eyes of the world so it all balances out.

Boeing 787 – Draw

Hooray – the plane that promised to revolutionize the air travel experience finally went into service! With larger windows, softer lighting, more humidity and lighter materials, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner is flying. That’s the good news. The bad news, it’s waaaaaaaaaaay over budget and behind schedule – which is not a surprise. Whilst it was under production, Airbus launched their full-cabin length, double-decker 380 which, quite honestly looks hot on the tarmac. I give this one a draw.

Disney Cruise Line – Winner

Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship, the Disney Dream went into service with rave reviews. Could it be because almost 90% of the staterooms have outside views and just about 90% of those rooms have private verandahs? Or maybe it’s the Aquaduck Water Coaster that extends beyond the side of the boat? Of course there’s the interactive art, dining rooms and bars? It’s a gorgeous ship, even if you’re not a Disney fan. But you don’t have to take my word for it, the ship has been sold out and is the envy of all the other lines. Kudos to DCL and let’s hope the Disney Fantasy will enjoy this tidal wave of when it launches in March.

Egypt – Loser

When riots erupted in Egypt at the beginning of the year, tales of stranded passengers and cancelled trips made headlines. Cruise ships altered itineraries and tour operators postponed their tours. Sadly, museums and other cultural sites were raided or worse. And while some of the fervor has died down, the memories remain strong as tourism numbers have dropped considerably. I predict it will be a long and painful recovery.

Japan – Loser

Perhaps one of the biggest stories this year came from Japan, which suffered a catastrophic earthquake and tsunami. With a story that played out endlessly in photos and videos, it went from bad to worse as the nuclear power plant leaked radiation and crippled the region. The Tourism Agency in Japan schemed a plan to draw interest and visitors to the country – to give 10,000 free plane tickets to the country to social media influencers to help spread the word. We’ll need to wait until April to see if this plan is improved. We can only hope Japan will emerge from this one.

UPDATE 12/28: It looks like the Japanese Government has declined funding for the 10,000 ticket initiative. Perhaps they have another trick up their sleeve.

Orlando Tourism – Winner

Earlier this year, Orlando announced that it became the first city in the United States to surpass 50 million visitors in one year. A staggering number that thankfully, means I don’t have to pay a State Income Tax (thank you tourists). With 7 theme parks, 5 water parks, a baziliion themed hotels and tons of other unique shows, attractions, restaurants and things to do, Orlando’s not that bad of a place to live either. So what comes next for The City Beautiful? Only time will tell.

New 7 Wonders – Loser

The New 7 Wonders Foundation announced this year it’s list of New 7 Wonders of Nature (provisionally until all votes are counted). And while one of my favorite spots, Table Mountain, made the final list, the voting and administration process was marked by allegedly mischievous doings. For the full report, check out the Scam Behind the Sham, one of the best travel articles I’ve read in a long time. I wouldn’t support this organization and suggest you don’t either.

What did I miss? Do you agree with the list above? Share your winners and losers by commenting. 

I’ll see you out there…!

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