Ethical travellers should pack their bags for Poland or Lithuania

A list of the world's top ethical holiday destinations has revealed that Poland and Lithuania are the best places in Europe to visit in 2010.

Compiled by Ethical Traveler (www.ethicaltraveler.org/destinations/2010) in the United States, the list consists of countries with sound records in social welfare, environmental protection and human rights.

Poland and Lithuania are the only two destinations in the European Union that make it on to the list, which also includes, in alphabetical order, Argentina, Belize, Chile, Ghana, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa and Suriname.

Some travellers may be startled at some of the inclusions - such as South Africa, which has huge gaps between rich and poor residents - and surprised that countries closer to home were not mentioned.

Ethical Traveler said: The places on our annual list may not be as popular as Thailand or Italy but they abound in natural wonders and fascinating culture.

""And they're serious about preserving their natural assets, promoting mindful travel and building an economy in which local communities reap the benefits of tourist revenue.

""Travel to these countries encourages such efforts, and inspires neighboring countries to support these values as well.""

Ethical Traveler admitted that naming the 10 'best' countries to visit was a dangerous business. It added: ""No country on Earth is perfect. Some are strong in some areas and weaker in others.

""Some do many things well, but fall dramatically short in one critical area. As the list gets shorter, the final choices get harder. It's as difficult as recommending dishes in a great restaurant. Everything is delicious; but these are the specials.""

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