Even though locals might think of Daylesford as a “town”, Bookings.com has included it among the “Top 10 Most Welcoming Cities on Earth”!

The announcement came as part of the agency’s 12th annual Traveller Review Awards. The Awards are based on more than 309 million verified customer reviews of accommodation, car rental car and taxi providers.  Over 22,000 Australian travel partners were recognised for their consistent hospitality with a Traveller Review Award for 2024.

Destinations were sorted by the total share of Traveller Review Award 2024 recipients when compared to the total amount of eligible accommodation properties in that city or region.

Daylesford was fourth overall in the list of the Most Welcoming Cities on Earth. The list included:

  1. Arraial d’Ajuda, Brazil
  2. Ermoupoli, Greece
  3. Viana do Castelo, Portugal
  4. Daylesford, Australia
  5. Grindelwald, Switzerland
  6. Moab, United States
  7. Uzès, France
  8. Mazatlán, Mexico
  9. Jaisalmer, India
  10. Fujikawaguchiko, Japan

“We believe that the best traveller experiences shouldn’t be kept a secret and we want to take the time to recognise our Australian partners who deliver the very best experiences in the eyes of customers,” said Todd Lacey, Bookings.com Regional Manager for Oceania. “The Traveller Review Awards are our way of thanking and publicly acknowledging the top notch service our Australian partners provide to travellers and the critical role they play in our mission of making it easier for everyone to experience the world.”

“What an incredible result for Daylesford to be included in the Most Welcoming Cities on Earth,” Said Mayor, Cr Brian Hood. Daylesford is a uniquely beautiful town, known for its striking landscapes no matter the season, award winning eateries and world-famous mineral springs and spa resorts.

“With a distinct village feel, visitors are spoilt for choice with retail outlets, galleries and markets to explore. Daylesford also has an abundance of local festivals throughout the year that showcase its charm and many colours, including ChillOut, Australia’s largest regional LGBTIQA+ pride festival held annually in March,” said Cr Hood.

This article is based on a media release from Bookings.com and Hepburn Shire Council.