LOS ANGELES (Oct. 25, 2016) –  Lonely Planet today announced that Los Angeles is included in its Best in Travel 2017, the highly anticipated collection of the world’s hottest destinations, trends and experiences for the year ahead. Los Angeles is ranked third in the world in the “Top 10 Cities” list, making it the highest ranked city in the Americas, ahead of Merida, Mexico (#4) and Portland, Oregon (#10). Lonely Planet’s writers and experts spend time on the road in almost every destination on the planet, and each year they report which destinations are set to take off, offering travelers the best experience available.

“We are humbled to say that Los Angeles is having a moment. 2015 was our fifth consecutive year of record-breaking tourism, as we welcomed 45.6 million visitors from around the globe, and 2016 is pacing to be yet another banner year,” stated Don Skeoch, chief marketing officer for Discover Los Angeles. “Our culinary scene is positively thriving, thanks in part to the city’s celebration of diversity and creativity, new ‘it’ neighborhoods are constantly emerging, and visitors are more attracted to the ‘L.A. lifestyle’ than ever before.”

"With more museums and theaters than any other U.S. city, L.A. has been gaining steam as a cultural destination," said Lonely Planet Editorial Director Tom Hall. "While it's far from a surprising travel destination, the 2016 Metro expansion has made it easier to get around than ever before, and there are dozens of new hotels in the works – great reasons for travelers to pay a visit in 2017."

For more information on visiting Los Angeles, including details on the more than 12 new hotels the city will welcome in the next 12 months, new attractions and cultural exhibitions, the city’s hottest restaurants and more, visit DiscoverLosAngeles.com.

To view the entire Lonely Planet list, visit lonelyplanet.com/best-in-travel.