Amelia Island Chosen As One of America's Top 10 Vacation Hotspots

Amelia Island, FL – November 16, 2007— Amelia Island, Florida has been named among the Top 10 North American islands by Condé Nast Traveler’s Reader’s Choice Awards.

The Amelia Island vacation hotspot ranked in the #5 spot, ahead of Hilton Head SC., Sanibel FL., and Captiva FL.

The awards are based on the results of the Readers’ Choice Survey, which is the largest independent poll of consumers’ preferences, second in size only to the U.S. Census.

More than 28,000 travelers voted this year. Winners were announced last month in New York and will be published in Condé Nast’s the November issue.

“We’re in some very good company on the Top 10 list. This recognition by some of the most discerning travelers in the world is something everyone on our island should be very proud of,” said Gil Langley, Managing Director of the Amelia Island Tourist Development Council (http://www.ameliaisland.org).

Readers in the survey evaluated their favorite island vacation destinations on activities, atmosphere and ambience, beaches, friendliness, lodging, restaurants, and scenery. Out of a possible 100 points, an Amelia Island vacation scored a 72.2, just 5.9 points shy of the top ranked island destination, Vancouver Island. In the awards 20-year history, readers have only twice given a perfect score of 100.

Also making the 2007 Reader’s Choice Awards is The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. The 444-room beachfront resort was ranked #21 among the Top 50 U.S. Mainland Resorts.

Located just off the coast of northeast Florida, Amelia Island is a barrier island rich in colorful history and breath-taking natural beauty. Its long, beautiful beaches, abundant wildlife, and pristine waters have made this Florida island vacation destination a favorite among outdoor adventures.

Upscale resorts with world-class spas, championship golf courses, and exclusive dining blend effortlessly with a captivating collection of bed and breakfast inns and historic districts. Amelia Island is home to Fernandina Beach, once a vibrant Victorian seaport village, and now a charming downtown district of eclectic shops, attractions and eateries. Information on planning an Amelia Island vacation is available at http://www.ameliaisland.org.