India the place to go in 2005

India, Russia and Tuscany are the top three destinations to visit in 2005, according to a lifestyle management organisation. Arcarnus surveyed its client list, which it claims includes celebrities and captains of industry, to gauge their views on the places to visit this year. India came out on top because members believe it provides the ultimate holiday experience for every type of traveller. The country can cater for everyone from culture lovers to shopping fanatics or those just looking for an energy rush, said the company. Russia was the runner-up, because Moscow and St Petersburg are branding themselves as the two trendiest cities in the world, with a combination of new money and old world charm. Meanwhile fishing fanatics can travel north to some of the most prolific salmon rivers in the world. Tuscany was voted third favourite by Arcarnus members because of the outstanding beauty of Sienna and Florence, art treasures of Uffizzi, and delicious food and wine available to holidaymakers. Arcarnus managing director Xenios Thrasyvoulou said: “Our members are extremely discerning and know what they want from life. While some of the more obscure results may surprise the general public, they don’t surprise us as a company, because we have been dealing with challenging requests every day.” The full top ten list is: 1 India; 2 Russia; 3 Tuscany; 4 Mauritius; 5 Cambodia; 6 The Palm Islands in Dubai; 7 Masai Mara, Kenya; 8 Uzbekistan – the Silk Road; 9 Shanghai; 10 Mexico City.