THE Bible for travellers has lavished praise on the North-East.
The latest edition of Lonely Planet, which is updated every two years, highlights new developments such as the Angel of the North, and describes the Metro system as cheap, efficient and pleasant to use.
It advises visitors to Newcastle's Bigg Market that "wearing a coat will earn you some funny looks even on the coldest nights, but the drinks are cheap.".
The Quayside is depicted as fast becoming the place to go, more stylish and attracting an older crowd.
Lonely Planet author Dave Else said researchers had noticed a number of improvements in the region.
He said: "There are the obvious things like the arts centre but there are the smaller things like the streets looking cleaner, and a better mix of restaurants, bars and cafes which all add up to make it a positive place."
The praise was welcomed by campaigners for the Newcastle Gateshead 2008 Capital of Culture bid. Newcastle Gateshead Initiative chief executive Neil Rami said: "This represents yet another example of how we are getting the message that we have so much to offer visitors."
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